The 10th edition of Bethlehem f’Ghajnsielem Nativity of the Village opened its doors to the public on Sunday afternoon.
The Minister for Gozo Dr Justyne Caruana performed the official opening, in the presence of the Mayor of Ghajnsielem Franco Ciangura.
Large crowds attended the opening day of the Nativity Village, which is spread over 20,000sqm of land, and seeks to replicate, the atmosphere and environs of Bethlehem at the time when Jesus Christ was born over 2000 years ago.
Dr Caruana thanked the team behind this initiative, which she said has the full support of the Ministry for Gozo.
The Grotto, is the main attraction for visitors, with the Baby Jesus in the loving arms of Mary, with Joseph by her side, and in the stall next to them a donkey with her baby.
Following a map, the public can walk around the village and visit the fisherman’s port, a 100 feet suspended rope bridge which they can cross to take a trip along the river on a Maltese boat, as well as the bakery, the blacksmith, carpenter, the wine tavern, farmhouse, the room of scents, open air market and the Bethlehem Inn.
There is also a Roman Garrison with live reenactments during animation hours.
This tenth edition of Bethlehem f’Ghajnsielem remains open until Sunday, the 6th of January 2019.
Although the nativity village is always open, it will only be Animated on the following days:
Wednesday, 12th December * 9.30am – 12.00pm
Thursday, 13th December 2.30pm – 7.30pm
Saturday, 15th December 4.30pm – 8.30pm
Sunday, 16th December 2.30pm – 7.30pm
Saturday, 22nd December 4.30pm – 8.30pm
Sunday 23rd December 2.30pm – 7.30pm
Tuesday 25th December 3.30pm – 8.00pm
Wednesday 26th December 2.30pm – 7.30pm
Friday, 28th December 4.30pm – 7.30pm
Saturday, 29th December 4.30pm – 8.30pm
Sunday 30th December 2.30pm – 7.30pm
Tuesday, 1st January 3.30pm – 8.00pm
Saturday, 5th January** Activity Magi in Malta
Sunday, 6th January *** 2.00pm – 8.00pm
*animated by the children for the school children and elderly
**Event in Malta in aid of community chest fund. Details to be announced at a later date
*** Departure of the Three Kings from Malta and Official Closing Ceremony.
Photographs: MGOZ/Terry Camilleri