If you’re going round Gozo, specifically between the limits of Ghajnsielem and Xewkija, chances are you came across this old and quaint chapel.

But did you know that it is the oldest surviving chapel in all of Gozo?

It was most likely built around the year 1540, making it almost 500 years old but the first document referencing it was in 1615.

In 1613, a tower was built next to it to offer protection to all the surrounding farming community.

It is dedicated to St Cecilia, patroness of sacred whose feast is celebrated every year on November, 22^nd.

The chapel serviced all the nearby farmers and their families until it was closed down in 1644 after it was declared unfit. This was due to the fact that its benefactor, Pasquale Muscat passed away and there were not enough funds left to keep the church open.

Only a few years later, Xewkija became the first rural parish of Gozo and the people living nearby were now being practiced within the parish at the then church of St John the Baptist. 

It was fully restored in 2008 and is now open to visitors.

Have you ever visited?

Facebook/Department of Information