Rotunda St. John Baptist Church

We visited the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist and found it to be a beautiful church with very interesting architecture. The church was renovated in 1951 (if I remember correctly). To enjoy the full panorama, you need to pay €3 per adult for the elevator that takes you up to the 3rd floor. Children go for free. The view from the top is truly stunning. However, the area upstairs is not well maintained, there was some mess, one statue was damaged, and there were bricks and construction materials lying around. Still, it’s a very nice experience for just a small price.

One of the beautiful basilicas in Gozo. Its large unsupported dome is the main attraction. One has to be modestly dressed to visit the church. I was wearing a sleeveless top so had to cover my arms with a white piece of cloth provided by the church.

This is the biggest church in Gozo and boasts the third largest unsupported dome in the world. It's so beautiful, and 3 weeks ago, the scaffolding got stuck by lighting and 100k of damage. The lift was out of order when we went. The Xewkija rotunda, dedicated to St. John the Baptist is the largest church in Gozo. The colossal church is an exceedingly large circular structure in white local limestone, its elegant dome supported by eight columns representing the eight beatitudes. Ix-Xewkija is one of the oldest villages of Gozo and took the status of a parish as early as 1678. Years later, a parish church dedicated to St. John the Baptist was erected and consecrated in 1755. After the 2nd World War, the parishioners – traditionally known for their building skills and craftsmanship in Maltese stone

Beautiful church set high with incredible views around. Free parking available in front. Free to enter but please cover up and leave an offering. Staff around for questions.

Rotunda is in village Xewkija short distance from the capital Victoria (Rabat) and is clearly visible as an orientation point of the island of Gozo even upon arrival by ferry

Great spot, with elevator you can go to the roof top

The first time we went here, there was a funeral procession, so we were not allowed to enter. We decided to visit again and the 2nd try was well worth it. Please be sure to take the elevator to the roof - the views are amazing. Architecture delightful inside and out. It was decorated for the holidays so was extra beautiful. Has a small museum in the back area, pretty interesting artifacts!

The Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Xewkija impresses with its enormous rotunda and ornate architecture. A must-see on Gozo!