Walking tour of Xewkija

Storm Harry hit the islands overnight and delivered the expected winds and coastal damage. Everyone was encouraged to stay indoors, and all ferry crossings were cancelled for the day.

We didn't get much rain, but the wind was blowing all day. By mid-morning the worst had passed so we went on a walk around Xewkija.

Xewkija (pronounced show-key-a) is the oldest village in Gozo and is best known for its circular church at the centre of the village. This is Gozo’s largest church, its dome a distinctive landmark visible across much of the island, and can easily accommodate the town's population of 3,000 people.

The streets were almost deserted and most shops were closed today. One of the few things open was the Xewkija Windmill. Built in 1710 its the oldest surviving windmill on Gozo and was once the centre of the flour production for the area.

Fun fact: Malta has the highest density of windmills in the world, with 1 windmill every 9sq km (the Netherlands has 1 every 39sq km).

We had lunch at a cafe on the outskirts and found a supermarket open for some fruit... then it was back to the hotel as the rain started late afternoon.Read more