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Xewkija

Xewkija, Xewkija, Malta

Xewkija, located on the stunning island of Malta, is a charming village that promises a unique and enriching experience for all visitors. As the oldest village on the island, Xewkija boasts a rich historical heritage dat…

#Small town#Religious#Historic#Cultural#Malta

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Xewkija.

Top Hotels in Xewkija

Top Flights to Xewkija

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Xewkija.

Tours

Xewkija Rotunda Visit

Explore the Rotunda of Xewkija, a beautiful domed church and an architectural marvel.

Shopping

Xewkija Artisan Market

Visit the local artisan market featuring handcrafted goods and Maltese products.

Outdoor

Xewkija Heritage Trail

Walk through the heritage trail of Xewkija to discover its rich history and scenic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Xewkija.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

3300.0

Languages

Maltese, English, Maltese

Average weather

Xewkija

Jan

15°9°

Feb

15°9°

Mar

17°10°

Apr

19°12°

May

23°15°

Jun

28°19°

Jul

31°22°

Aug

31°22°

Sep

28°21°

Oct

24°18°

Nov

20°14°

Dec

17°11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Xewkija.

What people love

Xewkija is a charming village located on the island of Gozo in Malta. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Xewkija:

Rotunda of Xewkija: Xewkija is home to one of the largest church domes in the world, the Rotunda of Xewkija. This impressive church is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
Local charm: Xewkija is a traditional Maltese village with a relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, interact with friendly locals, and experience the laid-back lifestyle of Gozo.
Cultural experiences: Xewkija offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Malta. Visitors can visit local museums, attend cultural events, and learn about the unique traditions of the island.
Natural beauty: Xewkija is surrounded by beautiful countryside and stunning coastal areas. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking trails, picturesque views, and relaxing beach days in the vicinity.
Proximity to attractions: Xewkija is located close to other popular attractions on Gozo, such as the Ġgantija Temples, the Azure Window, and the Citadel in Victoria. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island.

Overall, traveling to Xewkija offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and local charm that make it a worthwhile destination for visitors to Malta.

Enjoy your trip to Xewkija!

What to know

Xewkija is a small village located on the island of Gozo in Malta. While it is a charming destination with a rich history and beautiful architecture, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Xewkija:

Limited public transportation: Xewkija is a small village and may not have as frequent or convenient public transportation options compared to larger cities. This could make it challenging to explore other parts of Gozo or access amenities outside of the village.
Limited dining and entertainment options: Due to its small size, Xewkija may have a limited selection of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. Visitors looking for a wide variety of dining and nightlife options may need to travel to other areas of Gozo or Malta.
Limited accommodation choices: While there are some accommodation options in Xewkija, the choices may be more limited compared to larger tourist destinations. Visitors looking for luxury hotels or resorts may need to consider staying in other areas of Gozo or Malta.
Potential for seasonal crowds: Like many tourist destinations, Xewkija may experience increased crowds during peak travel seasons. Visitors looking for a more secluded or peaceful getaway may want to consider traveling during off-peak times.
Limited shopping opportunities: Xewkija may have fewer shopping options compared to larger cities or tourist hubs. Visitors looking for a variety of shops and boutiques may need to travel to other areas of Gozo or Malta.

Overall, while Xewkija offers a unique and authentic Maltese experience, travelers should be aware of the potential limitations in terms of transportation, dining, accommodation, crowds, and shopping options when planning a trip to this small village.

Xewkija is a village on the island of Gozo, which is part of the Maltese archipelago. It is one of the oldest villages on Gozo and serves as an important historical and cultural center. Here is a detailed history of Xewkija:

Early History

Prehistoric Times: The area around Xewkija has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as evidenced by the presence of Neolithic and Bronze Age artifacts found in the region.
Medieval Period: During the medieval period, Xewkija was a small rural settlement. The area gradually grew as people settled around the fertile lands.

Significant Events

16th Century: Xewkija became a prominent village after the construction of a church dedicated to St. John the Baptist. This church served as an important religious center for the community.
18th Century: In 1738, the village was officially recognized as a parish, which was a significant event in its development. This recognition helped to establish Xewkija as a central hub on the island of Gozo.

Historical Figures

Grand Master Perellos: The construction of the original church and subsequent development of the parish were influenced by the support of the Knights of St. John, especially during the leadership of Grand Master Ramon Perellos y Roccaful in the early 18th century.

Important Landmarks

Rotunda of Xewkija (St. John the Baptist Church): The most prominent landmark in Xewkija is its massive church, known as the Rotunda of Xewkija. This church is famous for its large dome, which is one of the largest in Europe. The Rotunda was built between 1951 and 1971, replacing the older church and becoming an iconic symbol of the village.
Mgarr ix-Xini Tower: This coastal watchtower, built in 1661 by the Knights of St. John, is located nearby and played a significant role in the defense of Gozo’s coastline.
The Windmill (Ta' Kola Windmill): While not exactly within Xewkija, the Ta' Kola Windmill is a notable historical site close to the village. It provides insights into the traditional rural life of Gozo.

Modern Developments

20th Century to Present: Xewkija has developed into a modern village while maintaining its historical charm. The area has expanded with new residential developments and amenities, making it a vibrant community.

Xewkija remains an important part of Gozo's cultural and historical landscape, attracting visitors with its impressive architecture and rich history. The village continues to be a testament to the enduring legacy of Maltese and Gozitan heritage.