XAGĦRA

Apart from being in itself a picturesque village, the village of Xagħra is rich in historical heritage and therefore has plenty to offer to its visitors.

Situated on the north east of the capital town of Victoria, on a lengthy stretch of high ground, Xagħra is encircled by the beautiful bays. Xagħra is famous for the prehistoric sites, the temples of Ġgantija. Calypso’s cave, of mythical fame, also lies within Xagħra. The present village has a more recent history. It became a parish in 1688, but the main church was only built during the mid 19th century. It is one of the most beautiful of Gozo’s churches, with its richly-decorated interior, gilt sculptures, Italian marbles and paintings.

The village also has two curious grottos, Ta’ Xerri and Ta’ Ninu, both of them beneath private houses but open to the public. The grottos have remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. The village also has two unusual museums: a Toy Museum; and an old wheat-grinding windmill. The mill, still in working order, has been fully restored and houses a collection of agricultural and domestic artefacts from centuries past.