Xewkija vs Zebbug (Gozo)
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Xewkija scores 9/10 for family-friendliness and sits strategically equidistant from Victoria, Mgarr ferry, and Ramla Bay — just 10 minutes by car to the ferry terminal. The village has a population of 3,300, flat terrain, easy parking, and a direct bus route (301) to Victoria and the ferry. Property here ranks among Gozo's most affordable, with strong traditional community life centred around the iconic 74m Rotunda dome.
Zebbug, with only 1,400 residents, scores 9/10 for safety but just 2/10 for transport. It has no shops, cafes, or restaurants — a 10-minute drive to Victoria is essential for services. The hilltop location delivers panoramic northern views and walking access to Marsalforn and the salt pans, but winter isolation is notable. Infrequent buses (route 311) and a 20-minute drive to the ferry make a car essential.
Historic village dominated by monumental church dome
Tiny northern hilltop hamlet
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
Living in Zebbug (Gozo)
Zebbug is a small hilltop village in northern Gozo — not to be confused with the larger Haz-Zebbug on Malta. The name means 'olives' in Maltese, a reference to the olive groves that once covered the surrounding hillsides. It's one of Gozo's highest points, and the views from the church square take in the entire northern coastline. The village is small even by Gozitan standards, with a single square, a parish church, and a few streets of traditional houses. The surrounding countryside is some of Gozo's finest — open farmland, dry stone walls, and walking trails that lead to the coast at Marsalforn and Qbajjar. The Zebbug plateau has several prehistoric sites, including cart ruts and megalithic remains that are yet to be fully excavated. Property in Zebbug is among the most affordable in Gozo. Traditional houses with views come at prices that are remarkably low for the quality of life on offer. The village has minimal amenities — a church, a band club, and a few houses — which is either a drawback or the whole point, depending on your perspective.
Highlights
- One of Gozo's highest villages with panoramic northern views
- Named after historic olive groves
- Walk to Marsalforn and the salt pans
- Prehistoric cart ruts and unexcavated megalithic sites
- Among the most affordable property in Gozo
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Xewkija
Xewkija comes out ahead in dining, family, nightlife, transport .
Choose Zebbug (Gozo)
Zebbug (Gozo) comes out ahead .
