The Feast of the Epiphany will be marked this coming Sunday in the Village of Xaghra, by the triumphal entry of the Magi known as ‘La Cavalcata Dei Re Magi.’
This spectacular annual event attracts many hundreds of visitors to Gozo over the festive period, including Maltese and tourists, to watch the event.
‘La Cavalcata Dei Re Magi,’ which was started for the first time on the island in 2010, is organised by the Ghaqda Il-Milied fix-Xaghra and the Xaghra Historical Reenactment Organisation, with the full collaboration of the Xaghra Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Refalo.
At 10.15am a couple depicting Mary and Joseph carrying the baby Jesus will make their way through Victory Square to their place in front of the Basilica followed by a shepherd and a lamb. The shepherd will pay homage to baby Jesus and then take his place next to them on the Parvis.
From three different streets, 8th September Avenue, Triq 28 t’April 1688 and Triq il-Knisja, the three Wise Men on horseback (the Magi) will converge on Victory Square. They will travel wearing rich attire accompanied by their pages carrying the three biblical presents, gold, incense and myrrh.
Once they arrive in the square they will follow a moving star travelling overhead across the Square until they arrive in front of the ‘Holy Family,’ one by one, they will present their gifts and pay homage to the Baby Jesus.
The Magi will then enter the Basilica to attend the Celebration of the Eucharist, where they will make the offerings at Mass, to be heard at 11.00am.
Photograph: Alain Salvary