Munxar vs Xewkija
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Munxar sits on Gozo's southern cliffs above Xlendi Bay, earning a beach rating of 8/10 and a safety score of 9/10, but transport scores just 2/10 with infrequent buses on route 306. The village has no shops, cafes, or restaurants, and the steep walk to Xlendi is challenging. Property here is very affordable even by Gozo standards, with a population of only 1,500. Mgarr ferry is a 20-minute drive, and reaching the airport takes over 90 minutes including the ferry crossing.
Xewkija sits strategically on Gozo's central plateau, equidistant from Victoria, Mgarr ferry, and Ramla Bay. It scores 9/10 for family suitability and 5/10 for transport, served by route 301 connecting directly to Victoria and the ferry terminal just 10 minutes away by car. The village of 3,300 residents offers flat terrain, easy parking, and some of Gozo's most affordable traditional property. Its standout landmark is the Rotunda dome, measuring 74 metres in diameter and ranking among Europe's largest unsupported church domes. Airport access takes approximately 80 minutes including the ferry.
Tiny cliff-top village above Xlendi
Historic village dominated by monumental church dome
Living in Munxar
Munxar is a small village on Gozo's south coast, perched on the cliffs between Sannat and Xlendi. The name means 'bucksaw' in Maltese, supposedly referring to the jagged shape of the coastline below the village. It's one of Gozo's least-known villages — most visitors drive past it on their way to Xlendi without realising it's there. The village centre is tiny — a church, a square, and a few streets of traditional houses. But Munxar's real identity is tied to the coastline below: Ta' Cenc plateau extends to its west, and the cliffs between Munxar and Xlendi contain some of Gozo's most dramatic coastal scenery. Mgarr ix-Xini, the fjord-like inlet shared with Sannat, is accessible from Munxar's side. Property in Munxar is very affordable, even by Gozo standards. Traditional houses with sea views are available at prices that seem extraordinary given the coastal position. The village has minimal amenities — a church, a social club, and not much else. Xlendi's restaurants are a five-minute drive.
Highlights
- Cliff-top position above Xlendi Bay
- Access to Ta' Cenc plateau walks
- Very affordable even by Gozo standards
- Dramatic coastal scenery on the doorstep
- Five minutes from Xlendi's restaurants
Living in Xewkija
Xewkija is one of Gozo's oldest villages, sitting on a plateau between Victoria and the eastern coast. The village is dominated by the Rotunda of St. John the Baptist — a colossal church whose dome is visible from nearly every point on the island. At 74 metres in diameter, it is one of the largest unsupported domes in Europe, exceeding St. Peter's Basilica in diameter, and it serves as a landmark for sailors approaching Gozo from the east. The village has a quiet, traditional character with narrow streets of old stone houses radiating from the church square. Xewkija is believed to be the first settlement established outside Victoria after the arrival of the Knights of St. John, and its name derives from the Maltese word for thorny bushes that once covered the area. The village retains a strong agricultural identity, with surrounding fields producing fruit, vegetables, and grapes for local wine. Property in Xewkija offers some of the best value in Gozo. Traditional townhouses with original stone arches and internal courtyards can be found at prices well below the coast. Newer developments have appeared along the main road toward Mgarr harbour, but the village core remains authentically Gozitan. The location is strategic — equidistant from Victoria, Mgarr ferry terminal, and the beaches of Ramla Bay.
Highlights
- The Rotunda — one of Europe's largest unsupported church domes at 74m diameter
- One of Gozo's oldest settlements, dating to the Knights of St. John era
- Strategic location between Victoria, Mgarr ferry, and Ramla Bay
- Some of the most affordable traditional property in Gozo
- Strong agricultural heritage with surrounding vineyards and fields
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Munxar
Munxar comes out ahead in beaches .
Choose Xewkija
Xewkija comes out ahead in family, nightlife, transport .
