Xewkija: The Heart of Gozo's Timeless Charm

• HelloBonġu
  [bon-joo]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [lay]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yek joh-jo-book]
• 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 ooh eent]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [teet-kel-lem bul-een-gleez]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [mah neef-heemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menù, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtee-ek in-ara l-men-oo yek joh-jo-book]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [mah nee-ekolsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq nħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtee-ek nal-las yek joh-jo-book]

• Help!Għiduni!
  [eed-oo-nee]
• Go away!Ibqa'
  [ib-qa]
• Call the Police!Ċempil il-Pulizija!
  [chem-pil eel-poo-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ċempil tabib!
  [chem-pil ta-beeb]
• I'm lostNinsab magħluq
  [nin-sab ma-luk]
• I'm illJien imdejjaq
  [yee-en im-dey-yak]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nishtee-ek in-ees-tree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [ked na-ra beess]
• How much is it?Kemm jiswa?
  [kem yis-wa]
• That's too expensiveDak huwa wisq sħiħ
  [dak hoo-wa wees-sh saw]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' taħdem il-prezz?
  [tis-ta tahd-em eel-prezz]

• What time is it?X'ħin huwa?
  [shin hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa lewel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Noxtri
  [no-shtri]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-gho-du]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-no-fsi-nar]
• EveningWaranotte
  [wa-ra-not-te]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-beer-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [i-loom]
• TomorrowGħada
  [ada]
• 1Wieħed
  [wee-hed]
• 2Tnejn
  [t-neyn]
• 3Tlieta
  [t-lee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [ham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sebgħa
  [seb-gha]
• 8Tmienja
  [t-mee-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-gha]
• 10Għaxra
  [a-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shin-hoo l-ind-ee-reesh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turiini (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta too-ree-nee fuq eel-map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jasal il-ġej?
  [meh-ta ya-sal il-je]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet gal]

Xewkija, a quaint village located in the heart of Gozo, Malta’s sister island, has roots that date back to ancient times. Archaeological discoveries indicate the presence of early settlers during the Neolithic period. The area’s fertile soil and strategic location made it an attractive site for habitation, trade, and agriculture.

The arrival of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century marked a significant turning point for Xewkija. The village became a focal point for the knights, who integrated it into their defensive network against Ottoman incursions. The influence of the knights is still evident today in the architectural style of the village’s buildings and structures.

One of Xewkija’s most iconic landmarks is the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist, also known simply as 'The Rotunda.' Completed in 1978, this monumental church boasts one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. Its construction was a community effort, with locals volunteering their time and skills. The church stands as a testament to the village’s strong religious and communal spirit.

During World War II, Xewkija, like much of Malta, experienced the ravages of conflict. The village played a role in the island’s defense network, and its residents endured wartime hardships. Post-war, Malta’s strategic importance continued under British rule until independence in 1964. The British era brought about infrastructural developments that modernized Xewkija.

Today, Xewkija balances its rich historical heritage with modern development. The village is a hub of activity, hosting traditional festas, markets, and cultural events that attract both locals and tourists. Despite modernization, Xewkija has retained its unique charm, with narrow winding streets, traditional farmhouses, and a close-knit community.

Xewkija is located on the island of Gozo in Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal, which is approximately a 45-minute drive. From Ċirkewwa, take the Gozo Channel Ferry to Mġarr Harbour on Gozo, which takes about 25 minutes. Once in Gozo, Xewkija is a short 10-minute drive from the harbour. Local buses and taxis are available for this journey.

Xewkija is a relatively small village and most attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the wider Gozo area, public buses are available and operate on a regular schedule. Renting a car or a scooter is also an excellent option for more flexibility. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed or booked in advance. For a unique experience, consider hiring a bicycle to explore the beautiful countryside.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Xewkija. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Gozo, including in Xewkija, where you can withdraw euros.

Xewkija is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always good practice to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Xewkija. Nevertheless, always stay aware of your surroundings and exercise common sense.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Xewkija has a local health clinic for minor medical issues. For more serious health concerns, the Gozo General Hospital is located in Victoria, which is a short drive away. Pharmacies are available in Xewkija where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites such as the Rotunda of Xewkija. 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 'bonġu' (good morning). A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as pastizzi and ġbejniet. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Xewkija like a local, visit the village square where you can interact with residents and enjoy a coffee at a local café. Attend a traditional festa if your visit coincides with one, as these celebrations are a great way to experience local culture. Explore the countryside by walking or cycling, and don't miss the opportunity to visit the impressive Rotunda of Xewkija, which is the largest church in Gozo. For a unique experience, join a local fishing trip or a boat tour to explore the beautiful coastline.