Xewkija Rotunda’s Glorious Restoration for St John’s Feast
Xewkija Rotunda’s Facelift: A Feast for the Eyes
As the sun sets over the picturesque village of Xewkija, the newly restored Rotunda gleams, a beacon of pride and resilience in the heart of Gozo. The grand finale of a three-year restoration project, the Rotunda is now ready to take centre stage during the upcoming feast of St John the Baptist.
From Derelict to Dazzling
The Rotunda, a historic landmark built in the 18th century, had fallen into disrepair over the years. Its once vibrant colours faded, and its grandeur was overshadowed by neglect. But the local council, with the support of the Malta Government, had a vision. They embarked on a restoration project that would bring the Rotunda back to its former glory.
The project, led by local architect Victor Agius, involved meticulous restoration work. The Rotunda’s dome, adorned with intricate frescoes, was painstakingly cleaned and conserved. The exterior was repainted in its original colours, a vibrant mix of yellow, red, and white, while the interior was given a new lease of life with fresh plasterwork and restored flooring.
A Community Effort
The restoration of the Xewkija Rotunda was more than just a construction project; it was a community effort. Local residents, proud of their village’s heritage, rallied behind the project. They volunteered their time, shared their memories, and contributed in any way they could. The Rotunda, after all, is more than just a landmark; it’s a symbol of Xewkija’s history and identity.
Fr. Joseph Mifsud, the parish priest of Xewkija, expressed his joy at the completion of the project. “The Rotunda is not just a building,” he said, “It’s a testament to our past, a gathering place for our community, and a beacon of hope for our future.”
The Rotunda’s restoration is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together. It’s a story of resilience, of preserving the past to build a better future. And as the feast of St John the Baptist approaches, the Rotunda stands ready, a symbol of Xewkija’s spirit and a source of pride for its people.
