"ZEBBUG - GOZO" a Zebbug Travel Page by micajo

Zebbug lies stretched on a tranquil hill to the north of Gozo. Its name in Maltese means olives or olive trees, denoting an olive tree culture in the area at some point in time. Zebbug actually rises on two adjoining hills, from where one could not help but observe a splendid panorama of the Gozitan countryside and the Mediterranean. On a slope facing Gurdan Lighthouse, known as is-Saghtrija, (The Wild Thyme Field), there was a considerable deposit of onyx. The owner of the field discovered it in 1738. Many churches in Malta and Gozo have works of art sculpted out of this onyx. The village church, dedicated to Santa Marija, the Assumption, is literally covered with this semi-precious stone. The high altar, the choir, and the baptistery are all sculpted out of this onyx.

Iz-Zebbugin are known for the high quality of their bizzilla (lace); nsig (weaving); and kutri tas-suf (sheep's wool blankets). The surrounding countryside is ideal for shepherds, whose sheep probably produce Gozo's finest gbejniet (cheeslets). Zebbug is indeed a living example of cottage industry. The villagers are very proud of their religious heritage, as judged for example, from the priority given to the maintenance of street niches. The best is that of il-Madonna Omm tal-Hniena, better known as tac-Cicri.

The bays of Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Xwejni adorn this picturesque village. These bays, apart from sheltering local fishing vessels, are excellent swimming and diving zones, popular amongst locals and tourists alike.