Gozitan Villages
Xewkija
Population: 3600Nearby: Sannat, Victoria, Ghajnsielem
Xewkija, which is situated on the east side of the island, between Ghajnsielem and Victoria, means ‘Xewk’ – thorns or thistles.
This village is very famous for its marvellous church; also known as the Rotunda. It took around twenty years to be built. Built from Maltese stone, this church is the largest in Gozo. The exterior of the church has been compared to the Salaute in Venice. Moreover, the most dominant aspect is the dome. This Rotunda is deducated to St. John The Baptist and the feast is celebrated on the third week of June.
Driving on the main road, there are the University of Malta (the Gozo section), the Gozo stadium and lots of Government offices. There are also two cemeteries; the St. Mary’s Cemetery and Xewkija Cemetery. Moreover, in entering Xewkija from the main road, one may notice the remains of an Octagonal Windmill Tower built back in the Grandmaster Pereilos’ time. This eight pointed mill is unique in Gozo for it reflects the eight principal wind directions.
There are also three towers. In the outskirts of this village, one may find the tower of Santa Cecilia. Unfortunately, the Tinghi Tower has disappeared in the last century. Both towers date back in the last century. Moreover, the Tower of Gorgion (demolished to make way for a temporary airport during the Second World War) was used by the Grandmasters as a summer residence.
Besides the beautiful landscapes, the village is also known for Xewkija’s string of pearls, where one can go trekking and abseiling both in winter and spring. There is also a road which leads to the beautiful picturesque bay of Mgarr ix-Xini.
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Amenities:
- Police Station
- Pharmacy
- Bakery
- Groceries
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