Xewkija’s Rotunda Shines Again for St John Feast
As the sun set over the picturesque village of Xewkija, a collective sigh of relief echoed through the narrow streets. The Rotunda, the village’s iconic landmark, stood resplendent in its newly restored glory, just in time for the annual St John the Baptist feast. The sight of the gleaming white dome, a beacon against the twilight sky, was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local council and volunteers.
From Dilapidation to Dazzling
The Rotunda, a symbol of Xewkija’s faith and heritage, had fallen into disrepair over the years. The once-pristine white dome was stained, the intricate stonework crumbling, and the interior in dire need of restoration. The local council, led by Mayor Joseph Borg, launched a campaign to raise funds and awareness for the restoration project. “We couldn’t let our heritage crumble away,” Mayor Borg said, his voice echoing in the empty Rotunda during a recent site visit.
The project, estimated to cost around €500,000, was ambitious. It involved not just the exterior restoration but also the delicate task of preserving the interior’s religious art and historical significance. The project was awarded to local construction firm, XM Construction, known for their meticulous work on historical sites. “We understand the importance of this project to the community,” said XM Construction’s project manager, Mario Vella. “We’re not just restoring a building, we’re preserving a piece of Malta’s history.”
Community Spirit Rises
The restoration of the Rotunda became more than just a construction project. It became a community effort. Local volunteers, from students to retirees, pitched in, helping with everything from fundraising to clearing the site. The local council organized events like concerts and art exhibitions, not just to raise funds, but also to keep the community engaged and invested in the project.
One of the most significant challenges was the restoration of the Rotunda’s interior. The intricate religious art, some dating back to the 17th century, had to be painstakingly cleaned and preserved. This task was undertaken by a team of local art restorers led by Dr. Maria Attard. “It’s been a labor of love,” Dr. Attard said, her hands gently brushing against a restored fresco. “We’ve uncovered layers of history, one brushstroke at a time.”
Ready for the Feast
The Rotunda’s restoration was completed just in time for the annual St John the Baptist feast, a highlight in Xewkija’s calendar. The feast, celebrated on the 24th of June, is a vibrant mix of religion, culture, and community spirit. The restored Rotunda will be the centerpiece of this year’s celebrations, its gleaming dome a beacon of hope and resilience.
Mayor Borg, when asked about the completed project, smiled broadly. “This is more than just a restoration. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community. The Rotunda stands not just as a symbol of our faith, but also of our unity and determination.”
