Xewkija’s Rotunda Shines Again for St John’s Feast
As the sun set over the picturesque village of Xewkija, the newly restored Rotunda gleamed under the soft glow of its floodlights. The sight was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the local council and volunteers who had toiled tirelessly to complete the restoration project in time for the village’s patron saint feast, St John the Baptist.
From Dilapidation to Glory
The Rotunda, a iconic landmark in Xewkija, had stood as a symbol of the village’s rich history for centuries. However, time and neglect had taken their toll, leaving the once majestic structure in a state of disrepair. The dome, a prominent feature of the Rotunda, was particularly affected, with cracks and leaks threatening its structural integrity.
In 2018, the Xewkija Local Council, with the support of the Malta Government, embarked on a ambitious restoration project. The goal was not just to restore the Rotunda to its former glory, but to ensure its longevity for future generations. The project was a complex one, involving intricate masonry work, the replacement of damaged stones, and the installation of a new drainage system to prevent future water damage.
Community Spirit and Craftsmanship
The restoration project was more than just a construction site; it was a testament to the power of community spirit. Local volunteers, including retired masons and craftsmen, rolled up their sleeves and joined the professional teams to ensure that the Rotunda was restored using traditional techniques and materials.
Among them was 75-year-old Joseph Vella, a retired mason who had worked on the Rotunda decades ago. “It’s like coming full circle,” he said, his hands still stained with mortar. “I’m glad I could help restore this piece of our history. It’s not just a building; it’s a part of who we are as a village.”
Ready for the Feast
The Rotunda’s restoration was completed just in time for the village’s annual St John the Baptist feast, a week-long celebration that draws thousands of visitors each year. The feast, a vibrant mix of religious devotion and traditional Maltese folklore, is a highlight on the local calendar.
This year, the Rotunda took center stage, its gleaming dome serving as a backdrop to the intricate altar set up for the feast’s main mass. The sight was a poignant reminder of the power of community spirit and our heritage.
As the feast came to a close, the Rotunda stood tall, a beacon of hope and resilience in the heart of Xewkija. Its restoration was more than just a project; it was a story of a community coming together to preserve its past and ensure its future.
