Xagħra, a village steeped in history and culture, sits proudly atop a plateau in the heart of Gozo, offering a harmonious blend of ancient mystique and vibrant community life. As you approach, the winding roads reveal a landscape dotted with fertile vineyards, lush orchards, and dry-stone walls that have withstood the test of time. The village, with its sun-kissed limestone houses and narrow, meandering streets, radiates a timeless charm, inviting you to slow down and immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of sights and sounds.
At the center of Xagħra lies Pjazza Vittorja, a lively square that serves as the village’s social hub. The square is dominated by the majestic Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady, a baroque masterpiece whose soaring bell towers and ornate façade capture the eye from every angle. Inside, the basilica is a haven of tranquility, with soft light filtering through stained glass windows, casting colorful reflections on the marble floors. The interior is adorned with intricate carvings, gilded altars, and a magnificent dome, where scenes of the Virgin Mary’s life are depicted in vivid frescoes.
Life in Xagħra revolves around this square, where locals gather at outdoor cafés to sip coffee and engage in animated conversations. The sound of church bells marks the passage of time, while the occasional clip-clop of a horse-drawn karozzin echoes through the streets, a nostalgic reminder of days gone by. The square is also the focal point of the annual village feast, the Festa of Our Lady of Victory, held in early September. During this time, Xagħra bursts into life with processions, fireworks, and band performances, as the community comes together to celebrate their patron saint in a display of faith and festivity that fills the village with energy.
However, it is Xagħra’s connection to the ancient past that sets it apart from other Gozitan villages. Just a short walk from the square, hidden among the olive groves, lies one of the island’s most extraordinary sites—the Ġgantija Temples. These megalithic structures, older than the pyramids of Egypt, stand as silent sentinels to a prehistoric civilization. Walking among the massive limestone blocks, you can feel the weight of history in the air, a sense of awe at the ingenuity of the people who built these temples over 5,500 years ago. The temples are remarkably well-preserved, with their towering walls and apses offering a glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of a time long past.
Adjacent to the Ġgantija Temples is Ta’ Kola Windmill, a charming relic of Gozo’s rural heritage. Built in the 18th century, this windmill has been meticulously restored to its former glory, with its sails once again turning in the breeze. Inside, the miller’s living quarters have been recreated, complete with period furniture and tools, providing a fascinating insight into the daily life of a Gozitan miller. The windmill, set against the backdrop of the surrounding countryside, is a picture-perfect symbol of the island’s agrarian past.
Xagħra’s connection to the earth is further evident in the nearby Xerri’s Grotto and Ninu’s Cave, two underground wonders that reveal the hidden beauty beneath the village’s surface. These natural limestone caves are adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, their intricate formations resembling delicate sculptures created by nature’s hand over millennia. The cool, damp air of the caves offers a refreshing contrast to the sun-drenched streets above, and the experience of descending into these subterranean chambers is both thrilling and serene.
For those who seek the natural beauty of the coast, Xagħra is also the gateway to Ramla Bay, a beach renowned for its distinctive red sand and pristine waters. The bay, just a short drive or a leisurely walk from the village, is framed by verdant hills and offers a tranquil escape from the world. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the surrounding dunes and groves provide shaded spots for picnics and relaxation. On the western edge of the bay, the legendary Calypso Cave overlooks the beach, a site steeped in myth as the supposed home of the nymph Calypso from Homer’s “Odyssey.” Standing at the cave’s entrance, with the expanse of the Mediterranean stretching out before you, it’s easy to imagine the enchantress luring sailors to her lair.
Xagħra is a village that embodies the essence of Gozo—a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a uniquely enriching experience. Whether you’re exploring its ancient temples, enjoying a quiet moment in the village square, or basking in the sun at Ramla Bay, Xagħra offers a journey through time and a connection to the enduring spirit of the island.
