Xewkija

Xewkija is a village on Gozo Island, Malta.

Xewkija, which is situated between Għajnsielem and the capital city, Victoria, is the oldest village in Gozo. The name is derived from the Maltese word “Xewk“, meaning “thistles” or “thorns”.

It is famous for its church, The Rotunda of Xewkija, which is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It is the Seat of the Knights of the Order of St. John, and was built from Maltese stone by local masons and craftsmen. It is the largest in Gozo and its dome dominates the village.