A new book has just been published to commemorate the 170th anniversary since the arrival of the statue of St. John the Baptist, in the village of Xewkija, Gozo. The statue was worked by the sculptor Peter Paul Azzopardi.

This book – L-Ghammiedi – which was researched and written by Grazio A. Grech, has three main sections. These include historical descriptions, the reproduction of a large number of old photographs and documents. There is a detailed artistic analysis of St John the Baptist, by Paul Cassar, who graduated in art history. In this description Cassar also gives information on the symbols on the statue.

And finally a photographic documentation of the feast activities in Xewkija, both internal and external, compiled by photographer Anthony Grech.

The book was launched in the Museum of Sculpture, Xewkija Church, by the Minister for Gozo, Dr Anton Refalo, who was also presented with a copy of the book. Present for the launch were the authors and photographer, together with the Xewkija Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Mercieca.

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