On Sunday, Jum Ghawdex or Gozo Day was commemorated with a wreath laying ceremony, followed by a Mass at the Gozo Cathedral, organised by the Regional Council of Gozo, together with the Ministry for Gozo and Planning and the Circolo Gozitano.
The ceremony commemorated the 226th anniversary of the uprising of the Gozitans against the French, which was led by Archpriest Saver Cassar in 1798 and is celebrated as a show of respect for the bravery shown by Gozitans during this difficult time.
The 28th of October has become known as ‘Jum Ghawdex’ or Gozo Day. This is to commemorate one of the most famous chapters in Gozo’s history. the capitulation of the French in Gozo on the 28th of October 1798, under the leadership of the Gozitan Archpriest Saverio Cassar. The French stay in Gozo lasted only 141 days
The wreath laying ceremony was held at the monument bust of the Archpriest Saverio Cassar, in Independence Square, this was followed by the Mass.
As part of the ceremony to mark Jum Ghawdex there was also the presentation of Gieh Ghawdex Awards, which took place inside the Sentinella Hall at the Citadel. A reception followed in the presence of President Myriam Spiteri Debono.
This year the awards were presented to the Mayor of Qala, Mr Paul Buttigieg, as well as to the Otters ASC Water Polo team.
Photos: Regional Council of Gozo