Xewkija’s Rotunda Shines Again for St John Feast
As the sun set over the picturesque village of Xewkija, the gleaming white dome of the Rotunda church stood tall, a beacon of pride and accomplishment. After years of meticulous work, the restoration of this iconic landmark was finally complete, just in time for the village’s patron saint feast, St John the Baptist.
From Dilapidation to Splendour
Once a symbol of neglect, the Rotunda, or as it’s locally known, ‘Il-Madonna tas-Sliema’, was a shell of its former glory. Weathered by time and neglect, the once magnificent church was in dire need of restoration. But thanks to a dedicated team of local artisans, architects, and the unwavering support of the Xewkija community, the Rotunda has been given a new lease of life.
The restoration project, which began in 2018, was a painstaking process. It involved the meticulous cleaning and restoration of the church’s intricate stonework, the repair of its iconic dome, and the reinstallation of its beautiful stained-glass windows. The project was a testament to the power of community spirit and Malta’s rich architectural heritage.
A Village United
Xewkija, a small village in the heart of Gozo, is no stranger to community spirit. The Rotunda restoration project was a prime example of this. From the local council to the village’s residents, everyone played their part in ensuring the project’s success. The project even attracted international attention, with volunteers from as far away as Italy and the UK lending a helping hand.
One of the project’s key supporters was local resident and historian, Dr. Joseph Farrugia. “The Rotunda is more than just a church,” he said, “It’s a symbol of our village’s history and identity. Seeing it restored to its former glory is a dream come true.”
Ready for the Feast
With the restoration complete, the Rotunda is now ready to take center stage during the village’s annual St John the Baptist feast. The feast, which attracts thousands of visitors each year, will see the Rotunda adorned with colorful decorations, its bell ringing out across the village, and its doors open wide to welcome all.
But the Rotunda’s new lease of life isn’t just about the feast. It’s about ensuring that this iconic landmark continues to stand tall for generations to come. As Dr. Farrugia puts it, “The Rotunda’s restoration is a reminder that our history is worth preserving, and our future is worth investing in.”
So, as the sun sets over Xewkija and the Rotunda stands proud, it’s clear that this isn’t just a story of restoration. It’s a story of community, of history, and of hope. And it’s a story that will continue to unfold, one bell ring at a time.
