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Rotunda of Xewkija

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

The Rotunda of Xewkija, officially known as the Parish Church of St. John the Baptist, is one of the most imposing architectural feats on the island of Gozo. Construction of the current church began in 1952 and was completed in 1978, purposefully built around the original 17th-century church. It is world-renowned for its monumental unsupported dome, which features an external diameter of 27 meters and stands 75 meters high, making it one of the largest domes in Europe and the world. Architect Joseph D'Amato designed the structure in a neoclassical style, utilizing local globigerina limestone for its massive walls and dome. The interior is lavishly decorated with fine marble floors and intricate sculptures, showcasing the craftsmanship and devotion of the local community. The dome itself weighs an estimated 45,000 tons and is a dominant feature of Gozo's skyline, visible from across the island. Visitors can take an elevator to the dome's gallery for a 360-degree panoramic view of the Maltese Islands. The parish is the oldest on Gozo, established in 1678.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Xewkija Rotunda Church · Pjazzetta l-Għammiedi · Landy
Nearby: Marsalforn (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Rotunda of Xewkija is an active church, so it is usually open for services and visits. The interior with its massive dome can be visited for free during opening hours.

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Typical hours

The church is open daily, typically from early morning until evening. Interruptions occur during mass and special holidays; usual hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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Photography

Photography is allowed inside the church, but without flash or tripod to preserve the atmosphere. The best shot of the dome is from the floor using a wide-angle lens.

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Time needed

A visit to the Rotunda typically takes 20-30 minutes. If you also want to climb the bell tower (if open), allow an additional 15 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the church visit with the Victoria Citadel or the Ta’ Pinu National Shrine. A stroll through the pretty village of Xewkija is also recommended.

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Getting there

The Rotunda is centrally located in Xewkija, within walking distance from the bus stop (routes 301, 303). Parking is available in the square in front of the church and on side streets.

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Insider tip

Visit the church in late morning when light streams through the windows and the dome looks particularly impressive. Be respectful during services and maintain quiet behavior.

Geography

Coordinates

36.03280, 14.26110

Facts

Construction took 26 years, spanning from 1952 to 1978.
The dome is 75 meters high with an external diameter of 27 meters.
The estimated weight of the dome structure is 45,000 tons.
The church has a seating capacity of approximately 3,000 people.
It was designed by the architect Joseph D'Amato.
Xewkija was established as the first parish outside Victoria in 1678.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Xewkija<1 km · WExplore →

Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)2 km · SWExplore →

Mġarr ix-Xini2 km · SEExplore →

Ġgantija2 km · NEExplore →

Gozo Artisan Network2 km · NWExplore →

Nadur3 km · EExplore →

Sannat3 km · WExplore →

Fort Chambray3 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Rotunda of Xewkija (10)

Xewkija Rotunda Church

One of the largest domes in Europe, visible from many places on the island. Built between 1952 and 1978.

🌐 gozodiocese.org

Pjazzetta l-Għammiedi

Square in Xewkija, Gozo. Public space in the village center.

Landy

Attraction in Xewkija, Gozo.

Ta' Blanks Megalithic Stones

Megalithic stones in Xewkija, Gozo. Evidence of prehistory.

Torri ta' Santa Cilja🗼 tower

Tower in Għajnsielem, Malta. Historic watchtower.

Ta' Ċenċ Dolmen

Dolmen in Xewkija, Gozo. Prehistoric burial site.

Santa Verna Temple

Megalithic temple site in Malta. Prehistoric cult place.

Victoria castle viewpoint

Viewpoint overlooking the Citadel of Victoria, Gozo.

Mġarr ix-Xini

Beach on the south coast of Gozo, Malta. Pebble beach in a bay.

Ġgantija Temples

Megalithic temple complex from the Neolithic on the Mediterranean island of Gozo.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit the dome?

Yes, a lift takes you to a gallery offering panoramic views over Gozo. There is a small fee for access.

How big is the dome?

It is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, with a diameter of 27 metres.

Is there a museum in the church?

Yes, there is a small museum displaying sculptures from the old church that the Rotunda replaced.

When is the church open for tourists?

Daily from approximately 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except during religious services.

How do I get to Xewkija?

The village is on the main road between Mġarr ferry terminal and Victoria, well-served by buses.

Rotunda of Xewkija: where is it located?

Rotunda of Xewkija is located in Malta.

Rotunda of Xewkija: what is there to see?

Highlights include Xewkija Rotunda Church, Pjazzetta l-Għammiedi, Landy.

Rotunda of Xewkija: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Rotunda of Xewkija: why is it worth visiting?

The Rotunda of Xewkija, officially known as the Parish Church of St.

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