Xewkija Rotunda Restoration Complete for St John’s Feast

As the sun sets over the picturesque village of Xewkija, a sense of anticipation fills the air. The reason? The much-awaited completion of the restoration works on the iconic Rotunda, just in time for the annual feast of St John the Baptist.

From Dilapidation to Dazzling

The Xewkija Rotunda, a grand 19th-century church, has stood as a testament to Maltese architecture for centuries. However, time and neglect had taken their toll, leaving the once-magnificent structure in a state of disrepair. The restoration project, which began in 2019, has not only restored the Rotunda to its former glory but has also unveiled hidden gems that were once obscured by the passage of time.

Unveiling the Past

Underneath layers of peeling paint and grime, artisans discovered intricate frescoes and ornate decorations that had been hidden for decades. These findings have provided historians and art enthusiasts with a unique glimpse into Malta’s rich religious and cultural heritage. The restored Rotunda now boasts a stunning new interior, complete with a gleaming marble floor and a magnificent dome that seems to touch the heavens.

A Village United

The restoration of the Xewkija Rotunda has been a labor of love for the local community. Villagers have rallied around the project, donating funds, volunteering their time, and offering words of encouragement. The completion of the works is not just a triumph for the Rotunda but also a testament to the power of community spirit. The feast of St John the Baptist, which takes place on the 24th of June, promises to be a particularly poignant celebration this year, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

With the Rotunda now restored to its former glory, attention is turning to the next phase of the project: the restoration of the adjacent parish church. This ambitious plan aims to create a cohesive, stunning religious complex that will serve as a beacon of Maltese heritage for generations to come. The success of the Rotunda restoration has given the community the confidence and momentum they need to tackle this next challenge head-on.

As the sun rises over Xewkija on the morning of the feast, the gleaming Rotunda will stand as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of the Maltese people. The restoration of this historic gem is more than just a building project; it’s a story of a community coming together to preserve their past and build a brighter future.