Picture this: the sun dipping below the horizon, casting an orange glow over the rugged scene of Gozo. Suddenly, a cluster of towering, alien-like structures juts out, stark against the island’s traditional charm. This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi movie, but a reality that’s dividing opinions on the sister island. Welcome to the world of ‘modern megaliths’, Gozo’s newest, and most talked-about, landmark.

The brainchild of local architect Charles Xerri de Caro, the Megaliths Village is a €15 million project that aims to transform the once-sleepy village of Xewkija into a tourist hotspot. The complex, which opened its doors earlier this year, features a 3D cinema, a restaurant, shops, and, of course, the eye-catching ‘megaliths’ – concrete structures inspired by Gozo’s ancient temples.

“I wanted to create something unique, something that would put Xewkija on the map,” says Xerri de Caro. “The megaliths are a nod to our past, but they’re also a symbol of our future.”

While some welcome the boost to tourism and the modern aesthetic, others are up in arms. “It’s an abomination,” says Malta Independent columnist Carmel Baldacchino. “It’s like they’ve taken our ancient heritage and turned it into a cheap theme park.”

Social media has been ablaze with debate. While some users praise the project for its audacity, others lament the loss of traditional architecture. “It’s like they’ve taken a sledgehammer to Gozo’s charm,” writes one user on Facebook.

But there’s more to the Megaliths Village than meets the eye. Xerri de Caro insists that the project is not just about aesthetics, but also about sustainability. “The structures are designed to collect rainwater and harness solar energy,” he explains. “It’s not just about looking good, it’s about doing good too.”

The project has also created jobs and boosted local businesses. “We’ve seen an increase in footfall since the village opened,” says Maria, who runs a traditional pastizzeria on Xewkija’s main street. “It’s good for business, and good for the village.”

As the sun sets on another day in Xewkija, the megaliths stand tall, bathed in the glow of controversy. Love them or hate them, there’s no denying that they’ve put this quiet corner of Gozo on the map. But the debate rages on – is this the future of Maltese tourism, or a blot on the scene?

how the story of Gozo’s modern megaliths unfolds. But one thing’s for sure – this is one landmark that’s not going to fade into the background anytime soon.