Xewkija’s Rotunda Restored in Time for St John 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 St John the Baptist feast. Locals and visitors alike can now marvel at the restored grandeur of this architectural gem, a symbol of Maltese heritage and faith.
From Dilapidation to Splendour
The Rotunda, a magnificent dome-shaped church dedicated to St John the Baptist, has stood sentinel over Xewkija for centuries. However, years of neglect and the ravages of time had taken their toll, leaving the once-proud structure in a state of disrepair. The restoration project, funded by the Xewkija Local Council and the Malta Government, aimed to breathe new life into this historic landmark.
The works, carried out by local artisans and conservation experts, included the repair and restoration of the dome’s exterior, the cleaning and conservation of the interior frescoes, and the restoration of the church’s iconic bell tower. The result is a structure that has been returned to its former glory, a testament to the power of community effort and historical preservation.
Community Pride and Participation
The restoration of the Xewkija Rotunda has been more than just a physical renovation; it’s been a journey of community pride and participation. Villagers have been actively involved in the process, from fundraising efforts to volunteering their time and skills. This collective effort has not only restored a historic landmark but also strengthened the bonds of community spirit.
Father Joe Borg, the parish priest of Xewkija, expressed his joy at the completion of the project, “The Rotunda is not just a church, it’s the heart of our village. Seeing it restored to its former glory is a source of immense pride for all of us.”
Celebrating Heritage and Hope
The completion of the restoration works coincides with the annual St John the Baptist feast, a celebration that promises to be even more vibrant and meaningful this year. The feast, held on the 24th of June, will see the Rotunda take centre stage, its gleaming dome a beacon of hope and resilience.
As the village prepares for the feast, the restored Rotunda stands as a symbol of Maltese heritage and the power of community spirit. It’s a reminder that even in the face of decay and neglect, with collective effort and determination, we can restore not just buildings, but also our shared history and cultural identity.
So, as the sun sets over Xewkija, casting its golden glow on the restored Rotunda, we are reminded that there’s always hope for a brighter tomorrow. And that’s something worth celebrating.
