Pergola Farmhouses Gozo https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/ Farmhouses and Holiday Accommodation in Gozo Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:46:23 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.9 The Village Festa – List of 2019 Gozo Feasts https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/06/28/the-village-festa-list-of-2019-gozo-feasts/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/06/28/the-village-festa-list-of-2019-gozo-feasts/#respond Fri, 28 Jun 2019 11:13:54 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=431 The village festa holds a prioritised place in the calendar of every Gozitan. Countdowns for the next feast begin months prior, with many locals involved in the preparation and planning that festas entail. Bands, fireworks, fundraising, church functions, revelry, street decorations, feast gear, music – there’s much to plan for an event attended by most […]

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The village festa holds a prioritised place in the calendar of every Gozitan. Countdowns for the next feast begin months prior, with many locals involved in the preparation and planning that festas entail. Bands, fireworks, fundraising, church functions, revelry, street decorations, feast gear, music – there’s much to plan for an event attended by most of the island and plenty of tourists.

 

The village festa encompasses the island’s identity perfectly: on the one hand you have the sombre church functions, and on the other, the relentless partying, all in the name of a saint, or two!

 

 

It goes without saying then: Christianity has a big role to play in the lives of the locals and, for many, the love they hold for their patron saint knows no bounds. But, they also love to celebrate, and what better way to celebrate a loved one (in this case a saint), if not with a huge event?

 

This is the Gozo festa. A weekly summer appointment that moves from one village to the next, in one big competition over who has the best bands, the best fireworks, and the best deco. Without a doubt then, there’s plenty to see. It’s all done by volunteers but there’s nothing amateur about feasts, especially so when it comes to fireworks displays.

 

 

Here’s a list of this year’s feasts – they’re well worth a visit if you’re on the island when one’s happening. The main (and bigger) ones are in bold.

 

29 June – St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur

7 July – The Visitation of Our Lady, Gharb

14 July – Our Lady of Relief, Kercem

21 July – St. George, Victoria

28 July – St. Margaret, Sannat

4 August –  St. Joseph, Qala

11 July – St. Laurence, San Lawrenz

15 August – The Assumption of Our Lady, Victoria

25 July – The Assumption of Our Lady, Zebbug

1 September – Our Lady of Loreto, Ghajnsielem

8 September – The Nativity of Our Lady, Xaghra

 

All feasts run for the three days preceding the main feast day, with activities running until early morning. The main feast day itself is characterised by a solemn mass at 8.30am or 9.00am, a band march and revelry at 11.00am, and a solemn procession at 6.00pm, followed by a final band march.

With so much going on, your stay in Gozo is bound to be a memorable one!

 

Gozo awaits 🙂

 

 

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Best place to stay in Gozo https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/05/29/best-place-to-stay-in-gozo/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/05/29/best-place-to-stay-in-gozo/#respond Wed, 29 May 2019 12:16:33 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=406 You can’t really go wrong with any of the towns and villages in Gozo. The island is small, the sights plenty, and the distances between each almost negligible. Still, staying in a town with a little bit of everything makes for a more laid back and relaxing holiday. This is why, in our books, Xaghra […]

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You can’t really go wrong with any of the towns and villages in Gozo. The island is small, the sights plenty, and the distances between each almost negligible. Still, staying in a town with a little bit of everything makes for a more laid back and relaxing holiday.

This is why, in our books, Xaghra is the best town for holiday accommodation in Gozo.

Image Credit: L. Borg

 

Historical sites

Xaghra is peppered with nooks, crannies and fully-fledged temples that have been gracing the town for millennia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ggantija Temples are older than the pyramids! The temple area has recently been refurbished with an interactive visitor center taking you back through the years. Ta Kola Windmill is another landmark you wouldn’t want to miss. Delve right into another world as you amass knowledge on past lifestyles and how villagers nourished themselves. An affordable Heritage Malta pass will get you into both.

Image Credit: www.visitgozo.com

Culture

As you walk around town you’d probably be surprised by the number of organisations and clubs there are. Socio-cultural life and volunteering are very well alive here. You’ll be more than welcome to drop by at the Band Club for a tea or a cold drink and the Football Club bar shows all games in a lively atmosphere. If you’re visiting in September, prepare for some serious religiosity and partying merged into one. The local festa (feast) is held on the 8th of September, but celebrations start from a good fortnight before. On the 7th, spectacular synchronised fireworks grace the skies. (Sneaky tip – fireworks from other villages can be enjoyed every weekend by the poolside if you opt to stay in the following farmhouses: Ta Danjela, Ta Guljetta, Ta Dora, Ta Lucija, Ta Cikka).

 

Image Credit: D. Grech

Bars and Restaurants

Xaghra square is lively 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s home to award-winning restaurants, and laid back cafes and bars that also serve breakfast and snacks. You’ll for sure be able to spot a number of retirees who wile their time away sitting on benches in the square – they’ll be more than happy to converse and recount episodes from ‘the good old days’.

Image Credit: www.visitgozo.com

Beaches

Xaghra is lucky – it’s surrounded by three bays that offer a bit of everything. Looking for sand and shallow water? Ramla Bay, definitely! Prefer a secluded area with clear blue seas? A hike to and a swim at Ghajn Barrani Bay is the definition of island relaxation. Looking to tan followed by a drink or dinner by the sea? The seaside resort of Marsalforn is the way to go.

Image Credit: J. Sultana

Views

Xaghra is a hilltop town with views all around. As we’ve said, it’s surrounded by three bays: Marsalforn, Ghajn Barrani and Ramla, and hence also fertile valleys nestled between hills. The Citadel (which, may we add, is breathtaking at night watch video) is also visible from most areas. You cannot really go wrong with accommodation in Xaghra. Pergola properties all come with uniquely stunning views. There’s nothing better than a BBQ at sundown, surrounded by nature’s bliss.

Image Credit: J. Sultana

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These Easter Events in Gozo are not to be missed https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/04/09/these-easter-events-in-gozo-are-not-to-be-missed/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/04/09/these-easter-events-in-gozo-are-not-to-be-missed/#respond Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:42:29 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=396 Us Gozitans are a bunch who like to plan, curate, celebrate and eat and, with Easter coming up, preparations are at an all-time high. The Easter programme this year is a full on 21-day one with various exhibitions, processions and pageants taking place in every town and village. Here’s our take on the events you […]

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Us Gozitans are a bunch who like to plan, curate, celebrate and eat and, with Easter coming up, preparations are at an all-time high.

The Easter programme this year is a full on 21-day one with various exhibitions, processions and pageants taking place in every town and village. Here’s our take on the events you should not miss during your visit:

Easter & Before

Il-Hagar Museum, St George’s Square

1 April – 30 April

Housed in the spectacular Il-Hagar Museum, this philatelic exhibition will take you on a journey of Lent and Easter, carving a socio-cultural window into the season’s celebrations.

 

Our Lady of Sorrows Procession

St. John the Baptist Rotunda Church, Xewkija

12 April – 7.30pm

Every village organises its own Our Lady of Sorrows Procession, but the Xewkija one is now well-renowned. The pageant-procession leaves from the Church and proceeds through several streets in Xewkija.

 

Burdati

Banca Giuratale, Victoria

11 April – 22 April

An exhibition of works of art by Paolo Camilleri Cauchi.

 

Good Friday Exhibition

St Julian’s Hospital Street, Fontana

12 April – 20 April

An original exhibition featuring Spanish miniature statues depicting the passion of the Christ. The decor also promises to be intelligently made to complement the statues, with a Sepulcher altar topping the exhibition.

 

Salt Infiorata

Gharb Square

14 April 08.00am

For the third year running, the Gharb Local Council will be organising a ‘Salt Infiorata’, consisting of three installations curated by foreign groups together with the Gharb Infiorata Group.

 

Easter Village

Ghajnsielem

14 April – 19 April

Ta Passi Fields in Ghajnsielem will take on new life after the success of the Christmas village which runs every year throughout December. For Easter, the area will be transformed in a period village with Biblical characters reenacting the time of Jesus’ passion.

 

Sacred Music Programme

Xaghra Parish Church

15 April 7.00pm

Head on to Xaghra Parish Church for an evening of sacred music under the artistical direction of Mro. Joe Galea and with the participation of Victory AD 1898 band.

 

Maudy Thursday Sepulchers

All churches in Gozo

Thursday evening and Friday morning

Every church in Gozo decorates a sepulcher. Churches stay open late, welcoming the faithful and offering a place for deep reflection. Locals traditionally visit 7 churches, with prayers in each in preparation for Good Friday.

 

Good Friday Procession

Victory Square, Xaghra

19 April – 6.00pm

Good Friday in Xaghra should definitely not be missed. The procession held in this village is one of the most devote and well-known with thousands of spectators living the Passion through hundreds of locals dressed as Biblical characters. A number of participants also wear hoods and carry crosses or pull chains as an act of thanksgiving to God or to fulfill vows. The procession also features ten statues made in Lecce, depicting the Passion of the Christ.

Good Friday Procession in Xaghra. Image Credit www.maltainsideout.com

Christ is Risen!

Victory Square, Xaghra

21 April 6.00pm

Holy Week culminates in a lively procession with the statue of the Risen Christ, which literally runs through various streets in the village. A must-see, especially if super energised from binging on chocolate easter eggs.

Photo Credit – Alain Salvary

Hip Hop Hurray

Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria

This event promises loads of family fun on Easter Sunday with crafts, a visit by the Easter bunny, balloon art, rides, jumping castle, rabbit petting, easter egg treasure hunt and more.

 

Now that we’ve gone over the events you shouldn’t miss while in Gozo, allow us to add a culinary tip: do not miss out on tasting some delicious figolla – the little Easter pop up shop next to the Xaghra church has the best and most traditional Easter delicacies.

 

Gozo awaits!

 

The full Easter programme may be viewed here

 

Featured image credit: www.visitgozo.com

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A local’s take on the best beaches in Gozo https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/03/29/a-locals-take-on-the-best-beaches-in-gozo/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/03/29/a-locals-take-on-the-best-beaches-in-gozo/#respond Fri, 29 Mar 2019 12:38:38 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=389 There are heaps of other guides for the best beaches in Gozo, but none of them really provide a local’s take on the beaches you simply must NOT miss during your stay. From secluded bays, to sandy coves and deep blue seas, Gozo’s coastline offers something for every swimming ability and adventure level. Here’s a […]

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There are heaps of other guides for the best beaches in Gozo, but none of them really provide a local’s take on the beaches you simply must NOT miss during your stay.

From secluded bays, to sandy coves and deep blue seas, Gozo’s coastline offers something for every swimming ability and adventure level.

Here’s a list of the beaches we locals love and wouldn’t want you to miss.

 

  1. Ghajn Barrani bay

Literally a stone’s throw away from Pergola Farmhouses, Ghajn Barrani bay is a hidden little gem that only a few locals know how to reach. The Pergola Valley gives way to a small sandy beach with pebbled areas, and a sea so clean and clear, that you can study every colourful pebble at its bottom. Ghajn Barrani Bay is surrounded by the green of the valley and the clay slopes that lead to its neighbouring but far more popular Ramla Bay.

Ghajn Barrani Bay is not reachable by car and it can get quite tricky in places if you intend to cycle down. The best way towards the bay is to trek it, the views are marvellous and the peace that awaits once you reach the shore is totally worth the trek.

 

  1. Wied l-Ghasri

Leisurely off the beaten track, Wied l-Ghasri is a gem with two little boat houses carved in the cliff. It’s flanked on each side by beautiful cliffs with a narrow inlet of water leading out to the open sea. On one side is a little cave which you can swim in and wile time away. It’s not as popular with the tourists, so you’ll be making the most of the local way of enjoying the island.

 

  1. Il-Port

If you’re after super deep sea, a cooler temperature to ease the summer heat, and a sense of freedom the second you touch the water, then the Il-Port area at Dwejra Bay is the place to be.

Nestled by the Fungus Rock and 180-degree cliffs, Il Port is reachable through a stone cut stairway. We admit, the climb upwards isn’t easy, but the swim to be had in this area is a memorable one.

  1. Ix-Xatt l-Ahmar

For marvellous views of the island of Malta, and a wide expanse of swimmable sea, Ix-Xatt l-Ahmar is another area you wouldn’t want to miss. You can drive towards the bay or else hike it down and make the most of the stunning views.

 

  1. Ix-Xtajta at Ramla Bay

There would be no such list without a mention of Ramla Bay. While the popular bay itself is beautiful, it can also get crowded, especially in July and August. If you’re not too fond of sharing a beach with hundreds of others, a short walk away along the coastline is Ix-Xtajta, a sandy cove, tiny, yet big on secluded beauty.

 

Gozo’s beauty is unique; take the time to leisurely explore the island when on holiday. The most stunning spots are usually off the beaten track, away from the usual touristy hustle and bustle.

 

The island awaits!

 

 

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Best time to visit Gozo, Malta https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/02/14/best-time-to-visit-gozo-malta/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2019/02/14/best-time-to-visit-gozo-malta/#respond Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:53:38 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=377 Why Gozo’s great With 300 days of sunshine each year and an impressive cultural calendar, there’s really no bad time to visit Gozo. Nicely placed right below Sicily, this Mediterranean island exceeds every visitor’s expectations. Be it basking in the sun you’re after, or a mild afternoon exploring sights, Gozo offers something for everyone, all year […]

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Why Gozo’s great

With 300 days of sunshine each year and an impressive cultural calendar, there’s really no bad time to visit Gozo.

Nicely placed right below Sicily, this Mediterranean island exceeds every visitor’s expectations. Be it basking in the sun you’re after, or a mild afternoon exploring sights, Gozo offers something for everyone, all year round.

Here’s an overview of the seasons to help you decide what makes your best time to visit Gozo:

Spring in Gozo

Gozo is known as the island of three hills. In reality, it’s an island of many hills, and hence, as many valleys. During spring, Gozo becomes an island covered in lush green, with clear blue skies adding to its postcard-material. Days are also warm enough to sunbathe and also swim!

Easter is an experience in itself on the island. Predominantly Roman Catholic, the island celebrates with animated processions and dramatisations of the Passion of the Christ. It’s also musical season so look out for the annual production at Astra Theatre.

Spring is ideal for long countryside walks, swimming, and exploring the historical and natural sights without the heat or the crowds.

The best summer destination

We won’t be humble about it. Gozo is the best summer destination. With a festa every weekend and fireworks beautifying the sky almost every day of the week, summer in Gozo is one big celebration. 

The best (safe) tans come from Gozo’s beaches. Nothing beats spending the day on the golden sands of Ramla Bay swimming in clear blue waters and snacking on a local bread or, as known locally, ħobż biż-żejt.

If you’re the party kind, Gozo’s famous Grotta has parties going on and the beachside resorts of Xlendi and Marsalforn are chock full of bars. For food-lovers, the local restaurants never disappoint and the fish dishes are literally to die for.

If you love the Mediterranean, topping up your holiday with a sailing trip around the islands makes for some stunning shots and unforgettable memories.

Culture in Autumn

Opera season graces autumn in Gozo. With two fully-fledged opera houses on a tiny island, constantly in competition over who puts up the best production, operas in Gozo are a force to be reckoned with.

Gathering the best in opera singers, costume designers, maestros and orchestras, the operas staged in Gozo are a must-see. The Victoria Arts Festival is also held in October – November so there’s plenty to see and do.

September and October are still basically summer – endless days relaxing at the beach are only a short walk away.

Winter in Gozo

Winters in Gozo are mild and it doesn’t rain very often. When it does rain, it pours, but only for a few hours and afterward, the island simply sparkles.

If you’re fond of country walks, cosy evenings journeying into unique culinary delights, exploring sights without sweating it out and – why not – a picnic on the beach, or a captivating dive, then winter in Gozo makes for a great holiday. What’s more, accommodation prices are much lower in winter and crowds are next to nonexistent.

Christmas in Gozo is a feast on the eyes and senses. Every year, the Christmas Calendar is chock full of concerts, exhibitions, and cribs. This continues up to the New Year with a big concert in Gozo’s capital, Victoria. When Carnival falls in February, Gozo becomes a sight to behold: floats, astounding costumes, and the world famous Nadur Spontaneous Carnival. If crowds are not your thing though, steer away from visiting on Carnival weekend – half of Malta travels to Gozo to join in the revelry.

More reading material can be found below:

https://www.loveholidays.com/holidays/best-cultural-locations-in-malta/

Gozo has something to offer for every kind of traveller. The island awaits!

 

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Easter in Gozo https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2018/03/16/easter-in-gozo/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2018/03/16/easter-in-gozo/#respond Fri, 16 Mar 2018 11:48:58 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=371 Events in Gozo this Easter Spring is in the air and Easter feels so very close! After a tough winter by Maltese standards, the sunshine and warmer temperatures have been much looked forward to. It’s time to explore the green Gozo countryside and enjoy picnics at the beach under the warm March sun. It’s also […]

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Events in Gozo this Easter

Spring is in the air and Easter feels so very close! After a tough winter by Maltese standards, the sunshine and warmer temperatures have been much looked forward to.

It’s time to explore the green Gozo countryside and enjoy picnics at the beach under the warm March sun. It’s also time for a strong dose of culture.

This is Gozo in Easter – an exciting mix of religion, tradition, art and culture.

Here’s what’s coming up in Gozo this Easter:

When Time What Where
17 March 19.30 L-Imsallab fi Triqatna Victoria
17 March 19.00 Ecce Homo – Concert of Sacred Music Ta’ Pinu National Shrine
22 March 19.00 Lignum Vitae – Concert of Sacred Music Parish Church, Gharb
22-25 March Salt Art Local Council Hall, Gharb
23 March 17.30 Our Lady of Sorrows Procession Zebbug
24 March 20.00 Jesus Christ Superstar Teatru Astra, Victoria
25 March 9.15 Palm Sunday Procession Victory Square, Xaghra
25 March 15.30 Jesus Christ Superstar Teatru Astra, Victoria
25 March 18.00 Children’s Passion Pageant Victory Square, Xaghra
25 March 18.00 Good Friday Procession Gozo Cathedral, Victoria
25 March 19.30 Il-Passjoni : Il-Bierah u Llum Fort Chambray, Ghajnsielem
28 March 19.30 Tenebrae, Relighting Easter Traditions Citadel, Victoria
30 March 9.00-12.00 The Last Supper St Francis Square, Qala
30 March 17.30 Oldest Good Friday Procession in Gozo St George’s Square, Victoria
30 March 18.00 Good Friday Procession Victory Square, Xaghra
01 April 10.00-16.00 Hip Hop Hurray Family Fun Villa Rundle Gardens, Victoria
01 April 18.00 Procession of the Risen Christ Victory Square, Xaghra
01 April 15.30 Jesus Christ Superstar Teatru Astra, Victoria
01 April 19.30 Mary Poppins Palazzo Palina, Hotel Ta Cenc
– 01 April Il-Golgotha – Passion of the Christ exhibition Victory Band Club, Xaghra
– 01 April Sacred Art – Manuel Farrugia Banca Giuratale, Victoria
 – 02 April Ave Verum Corpus – Exhibition Il-Hagar Museum, Victoria

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What to look out for when booking accommodation in Gozo, Malta https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/10/26/look-booking-accommodation-gozo-malta/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/10/26/look-booking-accommodation-gozo-malta/#respond Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:49:07 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=363 Are you looking for your next memorable holiday destination?   If you’re new to the islands, it helps to know which factors to look out for when booking your holiday accommodation. Here’s our take on what you should be after when searching for a unique place to stay whilst on holiday in Gozo: Views Gozo […]

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Are you looking for your next memorable holiday destination?

 

If you’re new to the islands, it helps to know which factors to look out for when booking your holiday accommodation.

Here’s our take on what you should be after when searching for a unique place to stay whilst on holiday in Gozo:

Views

Gozo is a hilly island with stunning valleys and beautiful blue seas. Villages on hills, such as Xaghra, Nadur and Zebbug, offer great views of the island. Choosing a property with a view helps you make the most of this island. Nothing beats breakfast in the outdoors as the sun rises on the green, blue, and yellow island hues.

“Choosing a property with a view helps you make the most of this island.”

Private Pool

We’re blessed with a beautiful Mediterranean that’s never too far or too cold. Still, having a pool at your rental property makes those moonlight dips all the easier!

Airconditioning

You’ll definitely thank us for suggesting this one. Summer in Gozo is hot and at times also humid. Returning to an airconditioned space after a day at the beach ensures you get a good night’s rest before the following day’s sightseeing.

BBQ area

Nothing beats having your own private space where you can prepare dinner to the views of a setting sun.

Accessibility

Having a bus stop close to your property helps you get around easily. Whilst distances are short, the island is hilly so walking or cycling can be quite a task at times.

Property owners to help you out

Having the owners only a call away ensures that your needs or requests are immediately met.

 

At Pergola Farmhouses, all of the above are a given. Let’s make your stay a memorable one!

The island – and it’s people – await.

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Events in Gozo in July https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/07/01/events-gozo-july/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/07/01/events-gozo-july/#respond Sat, 01 Jul 2017 14:18:56 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=354 With summer now in full swing, culture, arts and history reach a new high. Summer in Gozo is exciting and full to the brim with events. Here’s our guide to discovering Gozo events in July: Events in July 1 July Violoncello Recital – 20.00 – Victoria Feast of Our Lady of Visitation – Gharb 2 July […]

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With summer now in full swing, culture, arts and history reach a new high. Summer in Gozo is exciting and full to the brim with events. Here’s our guide to discovering Gozo events in July:

Events in July

1 July

Violoncello Recital – 20.00 – Victoria

Feast of Our Lady of Visitation – Gharb

2 July

Infiorata – Gharb

Vocal Recital – 20.00 – Victoria

Feast of Our Lady of Visitation – Gharb

3 July

Violoncello and Pianoforte Recital – 20.00 – Victoria

4 July

Junior Royal Academy of Music Vocal Ensemble – 20.00 – Victoria

5 July

Violin Duo Recital – 20.00 – Victoria

6 July

Siglo de Oro and Sam Corkin – 20.00 – Victoria

7 July

Marino Marini Quartet – 20.00 – Victoria

Sunscape Festival – Ramla Bay

Hondoq by Night – Hondoq Bay

8 July

Rochester Cathedral Choir – 20.00 – Victoria

Sunscape Festival – Ramla Bay

9 July

Flute and Harp Recital – 20.00 – Victoria

Sunscape Festival – Ramla Bay

10 July

Victoria International Arts Festival Closing Orchestral Concert – 20.00 – Victoria

13 July

Choral Concert by St Catharine’s College, Cambridge – 20.00 – Marsalforn

14 July

St George Feast – Victoria

15 July

St George Feast – Victoria

16 July

St George Feast – Victoria

Concert Under the Stars – Ta Frenc

21 July

Feast of St Margaret – Sannat

22 July

Feast of St Margaret – Sannat

23 July

Feast of St Margaret – Sannat

28 July

Feast of St Lawrence – San Lawrenz

29 July

Feast of St Lawrence – San Lawrenz

DCapitals Live at Citadella – The Citadel

30 July

Feast of St Lawrence – San Lawrenz

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The Story Behind Our Name https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/05/22/the-story-behind-our-name/ https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/2017/05/22/the-story-behind-our-name/#respond Mon, 22 May 2017 11:49:33 +0000 https://www.pergolafarmhousesgozo.com/?p=345 The story behind the names of our properties is as vibrant as the history of the valley which surrounds them. This area of Gozo is known as Pergla, a fertile valley leading to the bay of Ghajn Barrani – Foreigner’s Spring. The valley and the bay it leads to are the subject of many legends, […]

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The story behind the names of our properties is as vibrant as the history of the valley which surrounds them.

This area of Gozo is known as Pergla, a fertile valley leading to the bay of Ghajn Barrani – Foreigner’s Spring. The valley and the bay it leads to are the subject of many legends, the most popular of which places the Turkish corsair Dragut as its protagonist.  The legend goes that, at the height of summer, Dragut was sailing in his galley close to the shoreline from where he spotted a bountiful vineyard. He craved for a bunch of grapes and a slave offered to climb the cliffs and get some. Upon arriving, the slave found an armed farmer waiting for him and, fearing for his life, quickly grabbed a bunch and ran back to the galley. Unknowingly, together with the grapes, the slave had pulled a branch from the vine. Dragut was furious. According to the holy Koran, the vine is a holy plant and anyone who extirpates it must be punished. The slave was taken ashore and burnt alive under the rock in the middle of the plateau. To this day, this boulder is known as il-Gebla ta Dragut, Dragut’s Rock.

The name Pergola was bestowed upon our most sought-after villa: perched directly above the valley, it provides a magnificent vista of the valley, the bay and the stories which shaped it.

In the sixteenth century, Malta was governed by the Knights of St John. The Knights were in permanent conflict with the Ottoman Empire and both sides held countless slaves. Our family name, Sultana, owes its origins to these turbulent times. The first Sultana was in fact Solimano bin Musa, a younger son of an Amir or Bey from Karaman, Turkey. He was captured by the Knights and held as slave under several Grand Masters, first in Rhodes and then in Malta. In 1539, Grand Master de Homedes freed Solimano with great diligence, with a condition that he serves another six years. Upon release, the Grand Master granted him lands in Xaghra in return for services rendered. Together with his wife, also an ex-slave from Turkey, he became Christian upon baptism, adopting the name Saverio Sultana.

Our Villa Homedes is a tribute to the Grand Master who freed our ancestors.

In 1587, the surname Sultana was almost lost. Solimano’s (aka Saverio) son only had one daughter. Maria Soltana married Antonio Micallef and their only daughter, Guilia, was bestowed both her mother’s and father’s last name. When Giulia married Nicola Savona, part of her inheritance included the lands given to her great grandfather but, to further the legacy given by Grand Master de Homedes, her husband had to take on her surname.

Villa Savona remembers Nicola.

In 1712, Valenzia Sultana became a mother to Giovanni Pietro Francesco Agius. Giovanni chose to add to his name a Latinized version of his mother’s surname. Today, he is widely known as De Soldanis, a linguist, historian and cleric who wrote the first lexicon of the Maltese language. He published his works in Rome, Naples, Venice and Avignon. His publication on the Conspiracy of the Slaves that had taken place two years earlier, and in which he attacked the Order of St John and argued for the rights of the Maltese, got him in trouble with the Grandmaster of the time. De Soldanis had to travel to Rome to defend himself in front of Pope Benedict XIV. In 1763, after travelling widely, De Soldanis became the first librarian of what is today the National Library of Malta.

Villa Soldanis proudly carries our name and pays homage to a scholar who left a significant imprint on Malta’s literary history.

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