Xewkija’s Rotunda Ready for Feast After Restoration
In the heart of the Maltese countryside, the tiny village of Xewkija has been buzzing with anticipation. The reason? The completion of restoration works on the iconic Rotunda, just in time for the annual St John the Baptist feast. This isn’t just any church; it’s a symbol of Xewkija’s identity, a beacon of faith, and a masterclass in Maltese architecture.
From Crumbling Stone to Pride of Place
The Rotunda, officially known as the Church of St John the Baptist, has been a staple of Xewkija’s skyline since 1958. But time and weather took their toll. Cracks appeared, stones crumbled, and the once-grand structure began to look more like a ruin than a place of worship. In 2019, the Archdiocese of Malta launched a restoration project to breathe new life into the Rotunda.
Restoration: A Painstaking Process
The restoration was no small feat. Experts had to carefully remove the old stones, clean them, and replace them with precision. The dome, a marvel of engineering, required special attention. Each stone was numbered and recorded, ensuring it went back to its exact original position. The work was meticulous, but the results are undeniable. The Rotunda stands tall and proud once more, its white stone gleaming in the Mediterranean sun.
Celebrating a New Dawn
The feast of St John the Baptist, held annually on the 24th of June, is Xewkija’s biggest event. This year, it’s also a celebration of the Rotunda’s rebirth. The village will come alive with music, food, and fireworks. The procession, led by the statue of St John, will wind through the streets, culminating in a mass at the restored church. For the villagers, it’s more than just a religious event. It’s a chance to celebrate their heritage, their community, and their triumph over decay.
Xewkija’s Rotunda isn’t just a church. It’s a testament to the power of community, our history, and the beauty of Maltese architecture. As the villagers gather to celebrate this year’s feast, they’ll do so under a sky dominated by a symbol of their resilience and pride.
