Xaghra: Malta's Hidden Gem

• HelloMerħba
  [merh-ba]
• GoodbyeSaħħa
  [sa-ha]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yoj-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzani
  [skoo-za-nee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef eent]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo eent]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-kel-lem bl-ing-leez]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma nee-feemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtek in-ara l-men-oo, yekk yoj-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa nixtieqnebbiex laħam
  [ma nishtek-neb-byesh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtek in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]

• Help!Għajjat!
  [ay-yat]
• Go away!Mur!
  [moor]
• Call the Police!Ilħassar il-Pulizija!
  [il-hassar il-poo-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ilħassar tabib!
  [il-hassar ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [ink-et]
• I'm illJien maħmuġ
  [yeen mah-moog]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nishtek ini-stree]
• I'm just lookingQed inara biss
  [ked in-ara beess]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa dan?
  [kemm hoo-wa dan]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq ieftin
  [dan hoo-wa wees-k ee-ftin]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tnaqqas il-prezz?
  [tis-ta tnak-kas il-prez]

• What time is it?X'ħin hu?
  [shin hoo]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-wel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Nofs il-ħdax
  [noffs il-h-dash]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-jo-du]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-nof-sin-har]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [fil-ya-hee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bee-er-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [ada]
• 1Wieħed
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• 2Tnejn
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• 3Tlieta
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• 5Ħamsa
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• 6Sitta
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• 7Sebgħa
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• 8Tmienja
  [tmee-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-a]
• 10Għaxra
  [ya-hra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shin-hoo l-ind-ir-izz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi nippruvaw?
  [tis-ta toor-ee nip-pru-vaw]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta hu l-ġurnata li ġejja?
  [me-ta hoo l-jur-na-ta li je-ya]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet (al)]

The Ġgantija Temples, located in Xaghra, are among the world's oldest free-standing structures, predating even the pyramids of Egypt. Constructed during the Neolithic period, around 3600-3200 BC, these megalithic temples are a testament to the island's prehistoric inhabitants. The name 'Ġgantija' is derived from the Maltese word for giant, 'ġgant,' as local folklore suggests that these massive structures were built by a race of giants. The temples are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and provide significant insights into the early development of religious architecture.

The Santa Verna Temple Complex, another prehistoric site in Xaghra, dates back to the same era as Ġgantija. Although less well-known, archaeological excavations have revealed various artifacts, including pottery and tools, that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Malta's early settlers. The temple's remains indicate that it was an important religious and communal center for the Neolithic inhabitants.

The Xagħra Stone Circle, also known as the Brochtorff Circle, is an ancient funerary complex located near the Ġgantija Temples. Discovered in the early 19th century, the site consists of a series of underground tombs and chambers used for burial rituals during the Neolithic period. Excavations have unearthed numerous human remains, along with pottery, tools, and decorative items, providing valuable insights into the burial practices and social structures of prehistoric Maltese communities.

The Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, commonly known as Xagħra Church, is a prominent landmark in the town's central square. Built in the 19th century, this Baroque-style church is dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary and is a focal point for local religious and cultural activities. The church's interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate statues, and an impressive marble altar, reflecting the town's rich religious heritage.

The Ta' Kola Windmill, constructed in the 18th century during the Knights of St. John's rule over Malta, is one of the few remaining windmills on the island. Located in Xaghra, it has been meticulously restored to its original state and now functions as a museum. Visitors can explore the miller's living quarters and the mill's machinery, gaining a unique perspective on the traditional milling process and rural life in historical Malta.

The Xagħra Feast, held annually in early September, celebrates the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the town's patron saint. This vibrant festival features a week of religious ceremonies, processions, fireworks, music, and local food. The streets of Xaghra come alive with decorative lights and festive activities, offering visitors an authentic experience of Maltese culture and communal spirit.

Xaghra is located on the island of Gozo in Malta. The closest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa, on the main island of Malta. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Cirkewwa, where you can catch a ferry to Gozo. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes. Upon arrival in Gozo, you can take a bus or taxi to Xaghra, which is approximately a 15-minute drive from the Gozo ferry terminal in Mgarr.

Xaghra is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local buses connect Xaghra to other parts of Gozo. Renting a car or a scooter can be a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Taxis are also available, but it is advisable to agree on the fare before the journey. Bicycles can be rented for those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transport.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Xaghra. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Xaghra for cash withdrawals.

Xaghra is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Xaghra, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Gozo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Xaghra where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bongu'. A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Xaghra like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Maltese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Ġgantija Temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a unique experience, attend the local festa, which features traditional music, food, and fireworks.