Savina Church in Victoria undergoing conservation and restoration work

by Gozo News · December 9, 2024

The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as Savina, in Victoria, Gozo, is currently undergoing conservation and restoration work. The church, founded in the 15th century, is one of the most historic and prominent buildings in Victoria.

Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri visited the work which is being carried out by a group of workers from the Restoration Department within the Directorate for Cultural Heritage of the Ministry for Gozo and Planning.

The work involve conservation and restoration on the interior of the church, led by Architect Ivana Farrugia after intensive research and inspections on the site. This process led to the creation of a detailed document on the necessary interventions that are being carried out in accordance with guidelines on conservation and restoration processes.

The Minister said, “this work is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that Gozo’s cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. Savina Church is not only a religious symbol, but also an integral part of the history and identity of Victoria. Therefore, every intervention is being carried out with great care to preserve the beauty and original value of the building.”

This work is intended to conserve the design scheme of Mons. Giuseppe Farrugia (1852-1925) which starts from the main aisle and ends in the presbytery and dome. All the church’s wiring are being removed and re-plastered according to the guidance of the authorities concerned.

It was explained that other work related to this project includes restoration of the apertures, restoration of the decorative glass and restoration of the marble floor. A new lighting system will also be installed, suitable for liturgical functions and for adoration. The church will be given a more complete appearance with an intervention on the plinth, which complements the aesthetics of the building.

Rector of the Church, Mons. Joseph Vella Gauci thanked the Ministry for Gozo and Planning for its support in the restoration process and for the impeccable work that has been done and is being done.

Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by saying that this project will not only conserve this architectural gem but will also give a new look to the iconic church. “The work is being carried out in full collaboration with the competent authorities, and the workers are working in a safe environment that respects the highest conservation standards.”

The current church synonymous with Perpetual Adoration, is founded on a medieval one, and historical knowledge about it dates back to the period before the arrival of the Order of St. John in Gozo. In 1901, Mgr. Luigi Vella (1859-1925), with the help of collaborators, planned and worked on the new church.

The church was enlarged again in 1912 to a design by Vincenzo Busuttil. “Savina” was ready in 1913 for the International Eucharistic Congress held in Malta. The interior decoration of the church was done by Mons. Giuseppe Farrugia (1852-1925), a friend of Vella, Dean of the Cathedral Chapter, composer and designer.