Xewkija Rotunda Restored in Time for St. John Feast
As the sun set over the picturesque village of Xewkija, the gleaming white dome of its iconic rotunda stood tall, a beacon of pride and accomplishment. After years of painstaking restoration, the Xewkija Rotunda, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, has been returned to its former glory just in time for the village’s patron saint feast.
From Ruin to Renaissance
The rotunda, a unique architectural gem in Malta’s rich religious scene, had fallen into disrepair over the decades. Its once vibrant frescoes were faded, and its structure weakened by time and neglect. But thanks to a €1.5 million restoration project, funded by the Maltese government and the Xewkija Local Council, the rotunda has been given a new lease of life.
The restoration, carried out by local firm APL, involved a meticulous cleaning process to remove decades of dirt and grime. The original frescoes, dating back to the 17th century, were painstakingly restored, revealing their original vibrancy. The rotunda’s structural integrity was also reinforced, ensuring it stands strong for generations to come.
A Village United
The restoration of the Xewkija Rotunda was more than just a physical project; it was a labour of love for the village’s residents. Volunteers from the Xewkija Rotunda Restoration Committee worked tirelessly alongside the restoration team, ensuring that the project stayed on track and within budget.
“Seeing the rotunda restored to its former glory is a dream come true,” said Joe Camilleri, a lifelong Xewkija resident and committee member. “It’s not just a building; it’s a symbol of our village’s history and identity. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved.”
Ready for the Feast
The Xewkija Rotunda’s restoration comes just in time for the village’s annual St. John the Baptist feast, one of Malta’s most vibrant and colourful religious celebrations. The feast, held on the 24th of June, will see the rotunda take centre stage, with a grand fireworks display illuminating its gleaming dome.
Visitors to the feast can expect a week of celebrations, with traditional Maltese food, music, and dance filling the streets. The feast culminates in a grand procession, with a statue of St. John the Baptist paraded through the village, accompanied by marching bands and thousands of devotees.
The restoration of the Xewkija Rotunda is not just a victory for the village; it’s a testament to Malta’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage. As the rotunda stands proud, so too does the spirit of Xewkija and its people.
