Xewkija’s Rotunda Shines Again for St John’s Feast

In the heart of Xewkija, a bustling village in Gozo, the much-awaited restoration of the Rotunda of St John the Baptist has been completed just in time for the village’s annual feast. The grand church, a iconic landmark along Triq San Gorg, has been given a new lease of life, much to the delight of the local community and tourists alike.

From Dilapidation to Splendour

The Rotunda, built in the late 19th century, had fallen into disrepair over the years. The once vibrant yellow and white facade was faded, the bell tower was in need of urgent repair, and the interior was in dire need of a facelift. The Gozitan government, along with the local parish, embarked on a restoration project in 2019 to breathe new life into this historic gem.

Restoration Highlights

The restoration, carried out by local craftsmen, included a thorough cleaning of the exterior, revealing the original vibrant colours. The bell tower, a prominent feature of the Xewkija skyline, was meticulously repaired and repainted. Inside, the interior was repainted, and the beautiful frescoes, dating back to the 19th century, were carefully restored to their former glory.

One of the most significant aspects of the restoration was the repair of the dome’s leaking roof. The dome, a architectural marvel designed by the renowned Italian architect Giuseppe Bonelli, had been leaking for years, causing damage to the interior. The restoration team worked tirelessly to ensure the dome was watertight, safeguarding the church’s interior for future generations.

Community Celebration

The completion of the restoration project coincides with the village’s annual feast, a week-long celebration honouring St John the Baptist. The feast, known for its colourful processions, fireworks, and traditional Gozitan food, will this year also celebrate the triumphant return of the Rotunda to its former glory.

Father Mario Borg, the parish priest, expressed his joy at the completion of the project, “The Rotunda is not just a church, it’s the heart of Xewkija. We’re thrilled that it’s been restored to its former beauty in time for the feast. It’s a gift to our community and to all those who visit our village.”

Visitors to Gozo this week can expect to see the Rotunda in all its restored glory, a testament to the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. The feast, which culminates in a grand procession on the 24th of June, promises to be a vibrant celebration of faith, community, and the triumph of preservation.