Xewkija’s Rotunda Shines Again for St John’s Feast

As the sun set over the picturesque village of Xewkija, the gleaming white dome of the Rotunda church stood out like a beacon, a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local community. The much-anticipated restoration project, undertaken to celebrate the feast of St John the Baptist, was finally complete.

From Dilapidation to Glory

Just a few months ago, the Rotunda, a symbol of Xewkija, was in a state of disrepair. The once-pristine whitewashed walls were stained, the dome was chipped, and the bell tower was in dire need of restoration. But the villagers, with their characteristic resilience and determination, rolled up their sleeves and set to work.

The project, led by the Xewkija Rotunda Restoration Committee, was no small feat. It involved a complete overhaul of the exterior, including the repair of the dome’s cracks, the replacement of damaged stones, and the meticulous cleaning of the entire structure. The bell tower, too, received a new lease of life, with its damaged parts replaced and its clock mechanism restored to full working order.

Community Spirit in Action

What made this project truly special was the spirit of community that permeated every aspect of it. Volunteers from all walks of life came together, from young students to retirees, each contributing their skills and time. The local council, under the leadership of Mayor Victor Aquilina, provided unwavering support, ensuring that the project stayed on track and within budget.

Even the local businesses played their part. The popular Xewkija bakery, Il-Forno, donated pastries to keep the volunteers’ energy up, while the village’s pubs ensured that cold drinks were always on hand. The sense of camaraderie was palpable, with laughter and banter echoing through the streets as the villagers worked tirelessly towards their shared goal.

A Feast to Remember

The culmination of all this hard work will be on full display during the feast of St John the Baptist, which kicks off on the 23rd of June. The Rotunda, now shining like a jewel in the heart of Xewkija, will be the focal point of the celebrations. The traditional fireworks display, a spectacle that draws thousands of visitors each year, will light up the night sky, reflecting off the Rotunda’s gleaming dome.

But the feast is more than just a celebration of the church’s restoration. It’s a testament to the power of community, to what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. It’s a reminder that, despite the challenges we face, there’s always room for joy, for pride, and for a little bit of magic.

So, as the feast approaches, Xewkija stands ready, its Rotunda a symbol of hope and unity, a beacon of light in the heart of Malta.