Xewkija’s Golden Gem: Rotunda Ready for St John’s Feast
In the heart of Xewkija, a small town in Gozo, the sweet scent of incense and the echo of hymns filled the air as the local parishioners gathered for the annual feast of St John the Baptist. This year, however, the celebrations held an extra touch of magic, as the newly restored Rotunda of Xewkija, a architectural marvel that had stood incomplete for over a century, finally welcomed its first feast-goers.
From Incomplete to Magnificent
The Rotunda, a grand circular church designed by the renowned Maltese architect Giorgio Grognet de Vasse, was started in 1860 but left unfinished due to lack of funds. Fast forward to 2022, and the Rotunda has been given a new lease of life, thanks to a €3.5 million restoration project funded by the government and the local council.
The restoration, led by local architect Victor Agius, has not only preserved the Rotunda’s historic charm but also revealed its original grandeur. The dome, once a skeleton of iron and concrete, now glistens with a golden mosaic, while the interior boasts a stunning marble floor and intricate frescoes.
A Feast of Celebration and Pride
Father Joseph Borg, the parish priest of Xewkija, couldn’t hide his joy as he led the first mass in the restored Rotunda. “It’s more than just a building,” he said, “It’s a symbol of our faith, our history, and our community’s resilience.” The feast, which usually spills onto the main street, Triq San Ġorġ, was this year centered around the Rotunda, with food stalls, traditional Gozitan music, and fireworks adding to the festive atmosphere.
For many locals, the Rotunda’s restoration is a testament to their community’s spirit. “We’ve been waiting for this for so long,” said Maria, a local resident who has lived in Xewkija all her life. “It’s not just about having a beautiful church. It’s about preserving our heritage and passing it on to future generations.”
: More Restorations on the Cards
The success of the Rotunda’s restoration has sparked plans for more restoration projects in Gozo. The government has earmarked funds for the restoration of the historic Citadel in Victoria, while the local council is looking into restoring other historic churches and buildings in the island.
As the feast of St John the Baptist came to an end, the Rotunda stood tall, its golden dome a beacon of hope and pride for the people of Xewkija. It’s not just a building, it’s a story of perseverance, a symbol of community spirit, and a testament to the power of preservation.
