Let's Gozo issue 1

Sept 2011

Issue

issue 1

1

The Rebirth! let’s Gozo is back with a bang

Page 32

Mekren’s Bakery

The taste time never forgot

Character / Spirit / Foundations / Flavours / Calendar / Through the Keyhole

SSSSSS h...

Stunning Gozo!

Small and beautiful as it is, Gozo cannot be seen in just one day.

As a place to relax, ‘hang out’ and live the good life the island is unsurpassed.

After you set foot on Gozo, you’ll know why you need more than just a day to savour it’s leisurely charms. The more you enjoy your visit to Gozo, the more likely you are to return, and to recommend the island to others.

If you are intrigued by this beautiful island’s ability to create ‘Gozo fanatics’ like ourselves, then plan a visit. We always stay for more than just a day. It’s the secret hideaway of all Maltese. Which is why we would prefer to leave it undiscovered by you. But it’s in our nature to share the best we have with visitors.

Editor's note

Issue 1

unearthing Editor Coryse Borg Editorial Consultant Jo Caruana Publisher Gozo Tourism Association info@islandofgozo.org www.islandofgozo.org Advertising Gozo Tourism Association sales@letsgozo.com.mt Art Director John Falzon Design Keen Advertising Limited www.keen-advertising.com Contributors Pia Zammit Diane Brincat Photography Sasha Matic George Saguna Pre-Press & Printing Progress Press

heart & spirit Summer is slowly drawing to a close. Now, the relaxed air of summertime fun starts to wane, and the impending return to our frenzied winter routine draws ever nearer.

Thankfully though, on Gozo, that sense of tranquility is never far away. From the quaint backstreets behind the bustling Victoria marketplace, to the rolling countryside around beautiful Xlendi, there’s a never-ending selection of serene spots to discover. I have come to learn that for myself, especially while researching and developing our ideas for the re-launch of this very publication.

And it is with this in mind that I welcome you to the longawaited ‘rebirth’ of Let’s Gozo - the magazine that is dedicated to shedding light on the very best of what this charming island has to offer.

We have gone far beyond the obvious to showcase the authenticity that still lies around almost every corner here. For instance, the traditional flavours of Mekren Bakery (see article on page 32), or the highly-anticipated restoration of the striking Qala Fortress (page 20). But it doesn’t stop there. The team has used its native knowledge to source the most interesting local characters, most beautiful Gozitan spots and most unusual island stories.

So, in line with this, I hope you enjoy turning the pages and uncovering the true heart and spirit of what makes Gozo so very special.

Let’s Gozo!

Coryse Borg

On the cover

Let’s Gozo is published by the Gozo Tourism Association every two months on Sunday with an audited circulation of 39,500 copies distributed with the Sunday Times of Malta. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omission. Neither the editor nor publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, the editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. This publication is supported by the Ministry for Gozo.

Leaving Mekren's by George Saguna

www.letsgozo.com.mt 3

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contents

September/October ‘11

06

character:

The Spirit of Gozitan Survival

Alvin Scicluna, the celebrated producer of TV show Ghawdex Illum, talks about his passion for the island, as well as the highlights of his varied career.

10

37

through the key hole A look at the latest events to take Gozo by storm.

10

Spirit:

Two Outstanding Labours of Love

Coryse Borg goes behind the scenes at the Astra and Aurora Opera Houses to learn more about Gozo’s dedication to this fantastic art form.

14 20 24

Spirit:

Reaching Out & Embracing Life

Is there hope for those caught up in the difficulties of teenage pregnancy? Jo Caruana finds that, at Dar Guzeppa Debono – Malta and Gozo’s only home for unmarried mothers, there is.

Foundations:

A New Lease of Life

St Anthony’s Battery in Qala was recently restored to its formed glory. We venture behind the foundations of this historic landmark, which will soon be open to the public.

32 38

24

Foundations:

Modern Living Immersed in History

Let’s Gozo discovers a very special farmhouse in Munxar – complete with rustic and modern touches within centuries-old walls.

29

14

Spirit:

29

Playing the Game

Otters Water Polo Club has faced both triumphs and challenges in its recent history. We wander down memory lane to celebrate the nuances of this special sporting activity.

flavours:

A Family Affair

Let’s Gozo follows its nose to Mekren’s Bakery in Nadur, where the freshest bread and most aromatic pizzas have been the order of the day for decades.

32

Calendar of events:

Just round the corner

Get your diaries out as we chart the must-attend events of Gozo’s upcoming calendar.

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character

Alvin Scicluna:

The Spirit of Gozitan Survival The sky has always been the limit for celebrated Gozitan TV maker Alvin Scicluna, who was recently awarded the Gieh ir-Repubblika for services to the media industry. Here, Jo Caruana interviews him to discover the talent, passion and sheer determination that has gone into making Ghawdex Illum a long-standing success.

6 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Character

There is no ignoring

Alvin Scicluna’s fiercely patriotic streak. As the driving force behind Ghawdex Illum, the television show that has been highlighting Gozo’s various gems for over 20 years, you can’t help but be inspired by his love for the island.

But, despite that, his pathway into television wasn’t always obvious. He moved to Malta in his late teens to complete his teacher training, though he always stayed loyal to his home.

“I would spend the week in Malta and return to Victoria for the weekend,” he says. “I was only 17 at the time so it felt like a fantastic adventure and it definitely shaped my future.

Career-wise, Alvin is a teacher first and foremost, having taught Italian at a secondary school for 17 years before discovering his passion for journalism and photography. “I was also responsible for lecturing on media studies,” he explains, recalling the process that propelled him into the industry. “Back in the 80s, the school broadcasting unit, which is today called Education 22, was just being set up; I represented schools from Gozo.”

Within that, Alvin met and worked with local stalwarts of the television industry, including John Demanuele, Charles Xuereb and Charles Saliba, as well as many others.

“They were teachers like me, and I think well as of the immense our strong educational contributions that they background gave us an give.

People often ask me whether I am edge. There were very “Personally speakbored of Gozo yet, but I can honestly few TV professionals in ing, though, I still have say I’m not even close. Throughout the industry back then, to learn what ‘laidback my travels I really don’t think that I so our dedication and Gozo’ actually means! I have found any country as beautiful knowledge made us a have been working for 18 as this one, and there are millions hit. I was also lucky to hours a day for over 20 of nooks and crannies still waiting be selected by the thenyears, all while trying to to be discovered. Whether it is a head of BBC TV, Gordon make Ghawdex Illum the flower, rock, cave, field or valley, it’s Croton, for training. best it could possibly be.” all there waiting to be enjoyed. Even His guidance certainly In fact, as is evident though it may sometimes seem as taught me a lot of the from his collection of though I have told the story of every ideologies that I still old clips and snippets item here, in truth I know I haven’t work by today.” of upcoming episodes, even begun to unravel the myriad In the years that folthe TV producer’s vision of mysteries and assortment of tales lowed, one thing led to for the programme has that this fantastic island has to tell. another until Alvin realways been the same. ceived a phone call from “I have consistently *** the then-head of Xandir tried to promote Gozo Malta, Mannie Spiteri. for everything that it is, “It was life changing, as I was immediately whether that’s opportunities, challenges, sucseconded to produce Ghawdex Illum, which I cess stories, the richness of our history, the agreed to in October 1988,” he says. spots of natural beauty or the many links to Since then, Alvin has never looked back on Gozitans overseas,” he says. that decision. “I think Gozitans are labelled And it seems that Alvin and his team have with a spirit of survival for a reason,” he grins. certainly been getting something right.

“Today I am more convinced than ever that Ghawdex Illum has now been on our screens incredible people come from this island, as for 23 consecutive years, and has netted over

My Gozo

Story Snippets

Ghawdex Illum has been on our screens consistently for 23 years To-date, more than 1,000 episodes of the show have been aired Alvin and his team have won more than 17 awards for Ghawdex Illum

** Left and above: Alvin Scicluna's travels and passion for journalism have taken him around the globe, including to the Amazon, South America and across Europe.

www.letsgozo.com.mt 7

character

“We venture far deeper than most, as we’re always on the look out for different angles and have a duty towards our audiences.”

17 prestigious awards, including Magazine Programme of the Year, Cultural Programme of the Year and the prize for Overseas Journalism. It is also one of the rare shows that runs all year round.

“I think it has stood the test of time because it has always been produced in a very professional manner,” says Alvin, referring both to his dedicated team (which includes his three children, George, James and Katya, and charming wife of 34 years, Margaret) as well as the company’s top-quality kit. “We made the shift to High Definition in 2008, and today our equipment is on par with the likes of Rai, Sky and the BBC. It certainly helps the final product to look great,” he says.

“But at the same time there’s a whole lot of love that goes into it too. Over the years there have been times when people have asked if I wanted to move on but I never have.”

In fact, there have been many highlights for Alvin throughout the programme’s journey, including numerous trips overseas.

“We literally work around the clock, throughout the year,” he explains. “So, although any trips we do take for work are very full-on and hectic, they also provide a nice break.

“I really have experienced some amazing things, from minus 25-degree weather in Albania, to the tropical beauty of the Amazon.

“One particularly exciting experience involved the Straits of Magenta, on the southern-

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8 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

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Character

most tip of South America. It was an incredible place, and I couldn’t help but be amazed by the fact that I, a man from the tiny island of Gozo, had made it all that way. It made me feel very lucky, as have many of our trips.

“After all, we get to see things that most tourists wouldn’t, so each is a very privileged opportunity. We venture far deeper than most, as we’re always on the look out for different angles and have a duty towards our audiences.

I’m always amazed when we get home and can take the time to admire the footage that we’ve observed through a lens on our travels. The results always astound me.”

And while he’s shy to admit it, it is clear that those astounding results are very much the result of Alvin’s perfectionist streak, which has stood him in extremely good stead over the decades.

Now, though, he faces his next big challenge – passing the baton onto his children, as well as the family’s extended team.

“It’s not easy but I know I have to do it,” he smiles, “not least because I want Ghawdex Illum to stay innovative, and to keep pleasing audiences for years to come. And, in the meantime, I plan to discover even more of wonderful Gozo – now in high definition!”

“ There’s a whole lot of love that goes into it. Over the years there have been times when people have asked if I wanted to move on but I never have.”

left: Alvin receiving his Gieh ir-Repubblika award from President Dr George Abela. Above: Alvin honoured with Gieh il-Belt Victoria by the mayor Dr Samuel Azzopardi.

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Love

Two Outstanding Labours of

10 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Spirit

The Aurora: The striking red decor delights audiences just as much as its performances. Maestro Colin Attard has been the musical director for just over 20 years.

Not every country in the world is fortunate enough to have a fully-fledged, working opera house. In Gozo, Malta’s smaller, greener sister island, they are privileged to have two. In the same city.

On the same street.

Both situated in Gozo’s capital city of Victoria (also known as Rabat), the Aurora and Astra opera houses have withstood the test of time to become two bastions of culture on this tiny island.

Coryse Borg visits both of them to learn more about their history and to discover what cultural relevance they have today.

The Astra: Marion Zammit and Michael Formosalook after the running of the theatre and most people involved are volunteers. After a fire in 2003, the theatre was rebuilt and refurbished.

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Spirit

the

Astra

Founded in 1968, the Astra Theatre forms part of a larger musical voluntary organisation - the Soċjetà Filarmonika La Stella, which was founded in 1863.

The theatre was inaugurated in January 1968 and gave its first operatic performance Rigoletto by Giuseppe Verdi in 1978. This was successfully followed by operas such as Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Aida, La Traviata, Turandot, Macbeth, Madama Butterfly, Otello, Tosca and La Boheme, to name but a few.

The theatre has hosted international performers Raffaella Carra, Al Bano and Romina Power, The Platters, Bobby Solo, Nek, Amedeo Minghi, the Montparnasse Ballet Troupe and the Ballet Classique de Paris, as well as a number of local performers.

The Astra Theatre patrons have been exposed to world-class directors and singers from international opera houses such as the Metropolitan Theatre in New York and Teatro alla Scala; like Pamela Kucenic, Nicola Rossi-Lemeni, Aldo Protti and Giuseppe Giacomini, as well as local stars Miriam Cauchi and Joseph Calleja - who both made their operatic career debuts at the Astra.

Joseph Calleja’s first main part was in 1991 - as Macduff in Giuseppe Verdi’s Macbeth. Ten years later – after gaining international fame singing in theatres like the Met12 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

From Left: The beautiful entrance hall of the Astra leads into the expansive auditorium.

ropolitan and Covent Garden, he reprised the same role at the Astra.

As I explore, my guides are Marion Zammit and Michael Formosa who both take care of the theatre.

Marion could be described as its PR person (although her work encompasses much more than that!), while Michael is chairman of the Mediterranea Festival which incorporates the Astra’s annual operatic production, as well as a plethora of other cultural events.

Both of them juggle their work at the theatre with full-time jobs in Malta, so it is safe to say that they are very busy people!

“During the weeks before the annual opera, we simply don’t sleep,” laughs Marion, “It’s a very hectic time and there are so many things to do to ensure that we present a highquality production.”

They both inform me that there are no people working full-time at the theatre; just part-time and a large number of volunteers. In fact, each operatic production features around 200 volunteers.

You cannot mention the Astra Theatre without also mentioning an event which changed the course of its history. An extensive fire broke out on 8 November 2003, effectively

ruining the stage and orchestra pit.

The fire was a result of a short circuit in the electrical switchboard.

Marion remembers that day very well: “I wasn’t in the theatre at the time and I received a phone call from someone who told me: ‘the theatre is on fire’. At first, I thought it was a joke. But then I got called again. I dropped everything I was doing and rushed on site. It was awful. Everything – from the curtain to the music sheets on stage – was going up in flames.”

After that, the theatre was rebuilt and refurbished according to designs by Oscar nominee Peter Howitt, who has lived in Malta for a number of years and is very active on the local theatre scene.

It was re-opened in 2005. Part of the burnt and blackened curtain is on view in the atrium of the opera house, as well as an artist’s impression of the burnt-down theatre by Mr Howitt.

The next operatic production to be put up by the Astra, as part of the 10th Mediterranea Festival, will be Vincenzo Bellini’s opera ‘Norma’, with soprano Dimitria Theodossiou and tenor Antonino Interfano, as well as the National Philharmonic Orchestra on 27 and 29 October.

Spirit

the

Aurora

It was the committee of the Soċjeta Filarmonika Leone, set up in 1863, which, together with several volunteers, undertook the arduous task of building the Aurora in 1971. The opera house was finally inaugurated on 9 October 1976 and its first operatic production was Puccini's Madame Butterfly.

Since then, it has produced myriad highly successful opera productions and hosted international opera stars Eva Marton, Gloria Scalchi, Nicola Martinucci, Giuseppe Scandola and Mario Luperi, as well as more mainstream artistes such as Italian pop singers Pupo and Marco Masini, and local performers. It has also been host to a number of international ballet companies, including the Moscow Ballet Theatre.

The Aurora has an indoor seating capacity of 1,600, a spacious orchestra pit and beautiful décor designed

by Maltese artist Emvin Cremona. It is housed in the enormous building of the Soċjetà Filarmonika Leone, which also includes a spacious bar and indoor sports area downstairs, as well as managing to squeeze in a discotheque behind the bar.

I met the current musical director, Mro Colin Attard who explained that the part of the building where the opera house proper is situated actually used to be a cinema (in fact, I was later on taken to view the old film projector – a very impressive sight!)

Mro Attard (who just celebrated his 20th anniversary as the Aurora’s musical director) explained that the Aurora’s main event is undoubtedly the annual opera, which is produced there, usually at the end of October or the beginning of November.

“With the lack of a proper opera house in Malta, Gozo is in a special position – we are the place to go if someone wants to watch a ‘grand’ opera production. For example, our past two productions were ‘Aida’ and ‘Carmen’ – both large-scale productions which required a huge set, a large chorus and lots of extras.

For operas such as these, one needs space, which is definitely something we can offer,” he says.

Although the lead opera singers (usually foreign) and the producer are given remuneration, Mro. Attard stresses that the operas could not be produced without the help

of hundreds of volunteers who offer their time and talents to make it possible to organise such a colossal undertaking. Mro. Attard describes the input of these volunteers as invaluable.

The feedback by audiences to all the operas put up by the Aurora, according to Mro. Attard, has always been very positive. He says that he enjoys it immensely when local and foreign (there are quite a few ex-pats who live in Gozo) patrons who have a cultural background appreciate what is offered at the Aurora praise the high quality of the operatic productions.

The Aurora’s annual operatic production this year is Puccini’s ‘Tosca’. It will take place on 15 October, with international artistes Michéle Crider (soprano), Neil Shicoff (tenor) and Jaun Pons (baritone), as well as the National Philharmonic Orchestra. The producer is Novella Tabili. Mro Attard says that they are probably the highest-ranking opera stars that they have had so far.

When asked about the dichotomy of having two opera houses practically across the road from each other, Mro Attard smiles: “Yes, we are in a unique situation.

Suffice to say that in one particular year, we had two productions of ‘Aida’ within a week of each other!

Both were very well-attended, with full houses. It had different casts of course, but we do ‘share’ the national orchestra! It is mainly very healthy competition and I think both opera houses thrive on it.”

From top: Music is obviously integral to life at the Aurora, as demonstrated by this stunning piano that blends beautifully with the venue's decor.

www.letsgozo.com.mt 13

Reaching Out & Embracing Life Dar Guzeppa Debono really is a special place. Here Jo Caruana meets Maria Attard, one of the highly-dedicated volunteers running Malta and Gozo’s only home for unmarried mothers.

14 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Spirit

Story Snippets

The youngest single mother helped by Dar Guzeppa Debono was 13 40 – the average number of single mothers helped by the home annually

I think it’s easy to conjure up visions of

a ‘home for unmarried mothers’: a cold, dismal space that takes in girls who are ‘in a certain way’ and hides them away until their ‘little problem’ can be dealt with accordingly.

In today’s modern, more open-minded society, though, that picture does seem a bit out of place. Being an unmarried mum no longer carries the taboo that it once did, and most families will grow to accept their daughter’s situation despite any initial worries they may have.

Nevertheless, Dar Guzeppa Debono – a meeting point and home for unmarried mothers in Malta and Gozo – still stands proudly on a hill overlooking Mgarr Harbour. In the decades since it was set up in 1985, it has come to help countless girls and women through the challenges they faced both during and after their pregnancy, and it has become a symbol of acceptance and understanding throughout the country. Meanwhile, the welcoming ambience and friendly team couldn’t be further from the traditional ideas of what I thought a home like this might be like.

“I’ve been heavily involved since the project first started 26 years ago,” explains Maria Attard, a teacher by profession who runs the home with

From Left: The team at Dar Guzeppa Debono prides itself on making the home a welcoming space to be. Tranquility abounds here, with beautiful views streching across the harbour.

nothing short of sheer dedication and affection.

“The property belongs to the Gozitan church, and I was approached by the priest in charge of Caritas on Gozo, Mons Emmanuel Curmi, to see if I would be interested in running it. It was actually something I had long dreamt of helping out with, so I jumped at the chance. After all, as an educator within a secondary school, I had witnessed numerous cases over the years and wanted to do something about it.”

The need for a home cropped up because pregnant young women would often escape to Gozo if their families turned them out, and many sought help from Mons Curmi.

“He would take them in whenever he could,” explains Maria, “but as numbers increased it became more difficult. Consequently, the church decided to set up a residential home for www.letsgozo.com.mt 15

Spirit

Dar Guzeppa Debono also organises awareness campaigns and seminars for Form 5 students from Malta and Gozo. Called ‘The Value of Life’, the course follows the nine months of pregnancy by looking at what changes occur day by day and discussing the developments of the baby. A celebration takes place once the baby is ‘born’. It is hoped that more and more schools will enroll in this initiative in the future.

mothers so they would have somewhere to go if they were turned out or wanted to get away from their community for a while.”

Over the years Maria has developed a detailed understanding of the best ways to help the girls who come to the home. “They don’t all choose to reside with us,” she says. “Each case is individual and we assess them one by one, always trying to do the very best for the mother-to-be and her baby. Sometimes there are family problems or poverty to contend with, and in others the need for advice on fostering or adoption. It is all very complex, so over the years we have increased the number of services that we offer so that we

can effectively offer more solutions.”

Maria also explains how the age of expectant mothers has dropped over the years.

“A decade or so ago most single mothers were in their late teens or early twenties, but more recently we’ve even worked with girls as young as 13. In cases like these there are many things to consider – such as the mother’s education, the fact that she is still developing and how she will cope with caring for a baby when she is still a child herself. What kind of stability can you offer your offspring when you are 13?

“Thus there are so many needs that we have to think about, and we always proceed care-

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Spirit

“ It is so rewarding to watch the children grow up. We have had cases where babies have been saved from being aborted, and watching them develop healthily and happily brings us so much joy.”

Maria Attard

fully. We assess everything about the mother and her family, and go from there. After all, you cannot start talking about parenting skills if the mother is still in denial about her situation. Often it is hard on everyone involved – the mother who cannot believe what is happening to her, and her parents who seem to be watching the dreams that they had for their own child disappear.

“Meanwhile, some of the relationships between the mum and dad-to-be will still be very raw; they might not even know each other that well. We help them to work on their relationship and we have an excellent success rate for couples who have come through much stronger for it.”

Once they have got the groundwork done, the team can then go deeper, discussing day-to-day family routines, the role of the grandparents and father in the baby’s life and the importance of honesty even when the child is very young.

“Things don’t stop once the baby is born; we work with the family for as long as they need us,” says Maria. “It is so rewarding to watch the children grow up. We have had cases where ba-

bies have been saved from being aborted, and watching them develop healthily and happily brings us so much joy.

“In one particular case, the young man involved was absolutely determined not to become a father, and wanted to take his girlfriend abroad to have an abortion. Thankfully someone in the family reported it as the mother was still underage, and the police became involved. She was brought here and stayed with us until the baby was born; the father never communicated with her throughout. Thankfully, though, when he saw his new son, everything changed. Today we’re still in contact with them and we’re proud of the great bond that they have.

“Meanwhile, in another case, we arranged for a baby to be adopted, instead of aborted. Years later I spoke to the girl in question and she told me how grateful she was to be alive. It was a vey special thing to hear.”

Maria has been involved in the organisation for 26 years, she is still just as passionate as she was back in its early days. As with everyone involved, she works on a completely voluntary basis, handling everything from admin to fundraising.

“It has changed me,” she smiles. “I have become so appreciative of the gift of life and really enjoy helping the mothers in our care to thrive through the challenges with dignity.

It’s not easy, but we know they can do it. And we look forward to helping even more men, women and children as time goes on.”

From Left: Maria has been involved for 23 years; Dar Guzeppa Debono has a homely feel to it, with communal space that can be enjoyed.

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Spirit

the social side:

Social worker Lorna Cassar is trained to help young expectant mums through their pregnancies and beyond, and she is based at Dar Guzeppa Debono for that very purpose.

“Whatever the reason why they were referred, my role is to help the pregnant mothers who come to us. Some will have been referred through the hospital, others will know about us through friends or family, but they all need guidance in some way.

“We help them both before and after their baby is born, and each case is unique. We may advise one mum on the benefits available to her, and counsel another on her relationship with her family or partner. There are no set rules; we just advise them on the best way to cope.

“Of course, like any job, there are challenges, but I definitely take great satisfaction from my role. Often these girls just need a shoulder to cry on and someone to listen to them, and I am more than happy to be that person. It is always rewarding to watch them improve and learn to appreciate life. Sometimes young mums can see their baby as a burden, but we help them to appreciate the gift of life and to love everything about it.

“We also offer material help to the genuine cases that need it. We often touch poverty through our work, and can help to provide everything from clothes to items they need for the baby. It can generally make such a huge difference to them.

“Having done this job for a while now and through plenty of personal experience, I can certainly say that the impression I had of single mothers in the past was far from the truth. It has been very enlightening, and has opened my eyes to the hardships within many of their lives. I am so pleased to be able to help them through this stage of their lives, and to offer support and guidance that could help them for years to come.”

18 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

a mother's perspective: Tara* was still in her teens when she fell pregnant, and she immediately experienced some of the hardships that many expectant young mums face. Here she shares her experiences, and explains the strength that the team at Dar Guzeppa Debono helped to provide.

"I was just 17 when I got pregnant and it was quite a shock; I really wasn’t expecting it. I had been in a relationship for a while, but the realisation of what was happening put a lot of pressure on us. Having said that, I immediately knew I wanted to keep my baby, and never for a second considered adoption or anything else.

"When I broke the news to my family they weren't very pleased and my mother took it particularly badly.

Trying to make her understand was my hardest challenge. I guess she was just shocked that something like this was happening to our family. I struggled with the way they were coping, and really wanted to get some help to handle the situation.

“That help came when I was admitted to hospital with kidney problems during my pregnancy. They told me about Dar Guzeppa Debono and helped me to get in touch. I was immediately pleased that I did because the team imparted so much great advice. Through a variety of initiatives, such as one-on-one meetings with a social worker and group sessions with other young mums, I became more accepting of my situation and was better able to communicate with my family, too. The team also helped to rebuild the bridges between my mum and I, and things have improved greatly since then.

“Today the situation is better than ever before. My partner and I are still together, though my baby and I live at home with my family. The stigma of teenage pregnancy is still there, and the work of Dar Guzeppa Debono has been invaluable in helping me get through that; I don’t know how I would have coped without them. I would certainly recommend them to any other young mums out there, whether they are from Gozo like me, or from Malta. I’m so lucky that they were there for me, as I definitely think it has made me a better mum to my baby.” *Names have been changed to protect the identity of those involved.

Anyone requiring more information on Dar Guzeppa Debono, or who can help with fundraising or in other ways, can do so by calling 2155 2595 or on www.darguzeppadebono.org

GOZO HEAD OFFICE: The Brokerage, Level 0 “A”, St Marta Street, Victoria VCT 2550, Gozo, Malta Tel: 2258 7000, 2155 4492 Fax: 2155 9199 MALTA OFFICE: 78A, Fleur de Lys Road, Birkirkara BKR 9062, Malta Tel: 2144 1003, 21491 500 Fax: 2144 1006 e-mail: michael@michaelgrechfinancial.com www.michaelgrechfinancial.com Licensed to conduct investment services by Malta Financial Services Authority.

www.letsgozo.com.mt 19

St Anthony's Battery was recently restored to its former glory by Din l-Art Helwa and the Qala Local Council, crafting a beautiful space to visit while in Gozo.

Coryse Borg

A New Lease of Life

S

tanding tall in Qala, St Anthony's Battery – which is also known to locals as Ta’ Sant’ Antnin (belonging to St Anthony) or it-trunciera (the trench) – was built around 1732, as recorded by the date and inscription which once stood above the small, main gate into the fort – and is now missing, presumed stolen.

St Anthony's Battery was constructed during the reign of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena and the design is attributed to architect Charles Francois Mondion. Its function was to act as a gun battery for the defence of the coast and the channel between Gozo and Comino.

This structure is one of the few remaining eighteenthcentury coastal works of fortification erected by the Knights of St John to have survived to modern times.

In fact, it is one of only two coastal batteries from this period to have survived in Gozo (the other is situated at Il-Qbajjar, found just outside Marsalforn).

20 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Although the Battery was originally designed with a semi-circular gun platform and two blockhouses at the rear, it was actually built as a demi-hexagon, which makes its structure unique on the islands. The landward defences incorporated thick walls with several musketry loopholes and protected by a shallow ditch. A blockhouse with battered walls occupied the centre of the enclosure.

Until recently, the Battery was in a precarious state of disrepair. Time and vandalism had not been kind to it. However, restoration works began on this property a few years ago, after NGO Din l-Art Helwa and the Qala Local Council signed a co-operation agreement.

According to Qala mayor Paul Buttigieg, the two organisations had been campaigning for years to muster up the necessary resources with which to undertake the restoration works. The project was financed by these

Foundations

The Battery was in a precarious state of disrepair. However, restoration works began a few years ago and all the original stones were used, as well as quarry stones from Qala.

Following a complete restoration of the fortifications, Qala Battery is due to open to the public later this year.

two parties, as well as the Malta Environment and Planning Authority’s environment fund.

After what Mr Buttigieg calls ‘a ten-year saga’ (which included a court case and intervention by the then President of Malta to have the battery declared as a National Heritage Site and returned to public domain; and subsequently devolved to the ownership of the Qala Local Council), the Battery should finally be open to the public at the end of the year.

“When we eventually started restoration works twoand-a-half years ago, the Battery really was in a terrible state,” says Mr Buttigieg who has been Qala mayor since its inception in 1994. “It was also very difficult to reach by car so we had to build a temporary road to get to it.

To rebuild the Battery, we used all the original stones, as well as quarry stones from Qala, which are of the same type, that is, ‘hard’ stone. This kind of stone was also used to build Grand Harbour in Valletta.” www.letsgozo.com.mt 21

Foundations

When the Battery is opened

to the public, it will eventually become part of a ‘Heritage Trail’ to be co-ordinated by the local council, which will include 12 historically-important sites in Qala.

This was made possible by the acquisition of an ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) subsidy that allocated €200,000 to this project. Information panels in four languages will be found on every site, and audio guides and leaflets will also be available for collection from the local council.

This Heritage Trail will be implemented over three years, and, aside from the Battery, the sites which were identified include the Civic Centre, a picnic area, a folklore museum, Ta' Randu Windmill, Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay, Il-Madonna tal-Blat Chapel, the cart ruts, the Immaculate Conception Sanctuary, St Joseph Square, the parish church of St Joseph and the Qala belvedere.

Qala –

Some Interesting Facts This tranquil spot is the farthest village from Gozo’s capital Victoria (or Rabat), and the eastern-most point in Gozo.

***

Apart from the historically-important St Anthony’s Battery, Qala is also home to one of Malta and Gozo's few surviving 19th century windmills which, unfortunately, is no longer functional. Other sites of historical interest include the saltpans and cart ruts, (parallel tracks cut into the rock) which are some of the longest on Gozo.

***

Qala’s name is both Arabic and Maltese for sheltered haven or bay, and this is reflected in its coat of arms – a Gozitan boat sailing on rough seas. In fact, its motto is ‘In Tempestate Perfugium' ('A Haven from Storms').

***

The coastline of Qala is mainly rocky, with the exception of a few sheltered inlets, such as the wellloved beach called Hondoq ir-Rummien, which is also very popular with snorkelers. There are also several caves, some of which are only accessible by boat.

***

The parish church is dedicated to St Joseph and was consecrated in 1904. There is also a chapel known to its inhabitants as Il-Madonna tal-Blat (Our Lady of the Rocks), which faces Comino; legend has it that this was done so that people living in Comino could follow mass from across the sea when rough weather prevented a priest from going there. Breath-taking views may be enjoyed from the courtyard found in front of this church, as well as from the Qala Belvedere.

** From top left: The Battery will become part of a Heritage Trail, one of 12 sites of interest in Qala.

22 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Visit our website to book your stay NOW www.AbrahamGozoFarmhouses.com or send us an E-mail on info@abrahamgozofarmhouses.com Office: Abraham Farmhouses, Gozitano Complex, Xewkija, Gozo - Malta. • Tel: +356 21563231 / +356 21559981 / +356 21560952 • Mob: +356 99476165

www.letsgozo.com.mt 23

Foundations

Modern Living Immersed in History Gozo is replete with farmhouses – from cosy to expansive; from very modern to very traditional. And then there are some that are truly spectacular. Here, Pia Zammit scouts out the farmhouse of her dreams and shares the spoils with us.

24 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

W

hat once was a manger is now a luxury indoor hot-tub. Where once donkeys were tethered, now hides a speaker system that pipes relaxing music into the room.

I am standing (in awe, may I add) on the lower level of a former working farmhouse – now lovingly converted into a luxury abode with a fantastic pool. I’ll get to the pool later – it deserves its own section.

As I myself live in what was once a farmhouse, I’m quite blasé about many conversions; however sometimes the beauty of a property blows you away. In fact, Dar is-Saqwi in Munxar had me floating on a gust of wind into the happy-land of my fantasy world.

The stunning conversion has lovingly blended old with new – from centuries-old stones to modern furnishings.

www.letsgozo.com.mt 25

The layout of the building hasn’t changed drastically, however all the walls have been restored and repaired, and the wooden beams and stone slabs have been preserved, thus maintaining its authenticity as a farmhouse.

This labour of love was completed in 2009.

Foundations

Downstairs was hollowed out some 200 years ago and the stones were used to build this upstairs floor.

Munxar is an ideal setting for a spa-like relaxing holiday.

It’s a quiet little village in the south of Gozo with a population of around 1000. Yes, it’s that quiet. When Dar is-Saqwi was originally built in around 1667, the Munxar residents numbered 173. The bearer of these facts is Massimo Grima – my guide and the proud owner of the house. He and his dad, John, tell me that the property has been in their family for at least 130 years.

The Grima father and son team are enthusiastic guides, showing me every nook and cranny of the house, whilst telling me about the history of Munxar and the neighbouring Sannat – where they live. In their spare time they’re both musically inclined – up until four years ago, Massimo used to form part of the local band playing the euphonium (it’s kind of like a tenor tuba), and John is a choir member and sings in the operas staged at the Astra and Aurora Theatres in Rabat (Victoria).

In 2000, the Grimas started work on Dar is-Saqwi. It was a slow task as they designed the conversion themselves. They also personally tackled some of the building and all the cosmetic work. The layout of the building hasn’t changed drastically, however they have restored and repaired all the walls and preserved the wooden beams and stone slabs, maintaining its authenticity as a farmhouse. They finally finished their labour of love in 2009.

Let’s walk through it together shall we? Dar is-Saqwi is situated on a lovely quiet street (well, all streets are quiet in Munxar). The innocuous farmhouse-standard bare wooden door opens up to a sunny central courtyard and I’m already picturing myself sitting out here with a book and a glass of wine. On the 300+ year old ground floor are two bedrooms – one comfortable double and the second, an extremely large room, houses four single beds. Upstairs we find another two double bedroom, both with ensuite bathrooms – one of which has a beautiful old bath with legs. Downstairs is a lovely family room, that’s very evocative of the traditional feel of the place.

So far so normal, right? Now the seriously fun stuff starts...

Off the downstairs courtyard and down a couple of steps lies a cosy arched room. This room was hollowed out some 200 years ago and the stones were used to build the upstairs floor. It was then used as a ‘bed and breakfast’ for the farmers’ animals - they were bedded and fed there. Now it has been transformed into the aforementioned Jacuzzi room. It’s an impressively large six-seater hottub, and I wondered how on earth it was brought into the room – the doorway is definitely too narrow. John chuckles as he tells me that they had to remove some of the xorok (long ceiling slabs), lower the tub in sideways and then seal up the roof again. They’ve installed pink mood lighting in the archways and a sound system to truly make this room as dreamlike and relaxing as possible.

It’s this attention to detail that makes Dar is-Saqwi outstanding. You couldn’t ask for much more. But there IS more ....

Now we get to what makes Dar is-Saqwi amazing. At the back of the house and overlooked by most of the rooms, is a multi level garden. This is the Grimas’ pride and joy – and rightly so.

The house and garden sit on a cliff’s edge and the garden offers a 180 degree panoramic view of the evergreen and stunning Xlendi Valley. I could wax lyrical about the view till the cows come home, however I could never do it justice and would only throw more clichés at you. So we’ll move on.

The upper garden level consists of a large terrace and BBQ area, which lead on to a shady rock garden. A short stroll along the shady tree-lined pathway leads you to a belvedere. Very romantic and private. Massimo tells me that they designed the pathway around the trees – which have been there for around 200 years and therefore take precedence over any construction. The whole feel of the garden is very organic and natural, nothing appears to be ‘built’ or ‘modern’ – nothing jars.

The lower garden level seems to have ‘grown’ naturally out of the rock and is host to an amazing oversized swimming pool with its own ‘natural’ waterfall. When you are swimming in the pool all you can see is the unbelievable view. If that doesn’t lead to total relaxation – I don’t know what would. www.letsgozo.com.mt 27

Welcome to Victor J. Borg Enterprises

SAINT

PATRICK’S H O T E L

Just 3 metres from the clear blue sea right in the middle of charming little Xlendi bay

Be surrounded by tranquillity, immersed in nature and embraced by relaxation

A 300 year old farmhouse converted into a hotel, with today’s modern comforts

Xlendi, Island of Gozo, Malta

Sannat, Island of Gozo, Malta

Xaghra, Island of Gozo, Malta

T 21562951

T 22191000

E stpatricks@vjborg.com W www.vjborg.com

E tacenc@vjborg.com W www.tacenc.com

T 21556486

E cornucopia@vjborg.com

W www.cornucopiahotel.com

Spirit

Playing the

Game

Pia Zammit visits the town of her youth, catches up with a long-lost cousin, and finds out why he’s being held hostage by jellyfish.

www.letsgozo.com.mt 29

Spirit

In my teenage years

I was an avid (and by ‘avid’ I mean obsessive) waterpolo fan. I wouldn’t miss a game for love or money. I’d paint myself red (Neptunes Waterpolo Club, you see) and scream obscenities at the referee along with the rest of my scarlet-clad comrades. The waterpolo season was one of the highlights of my summer holidays, and yet I was oblivious to the waterpolo scene in neighbouring Gozo (where I had ironically spent every summer as a kid).

In order to right this wrong, I head on down to Otters Aquatic Sports Club in Marsalforn to meet the club president Dr Enzo Dimech at Otters’ Restaurant. To my extreme joy, he turns out to be a long-lost (he wasn’t really lost – we just hadn’t seen each other for many, many years) relative of mine. So we settle down to a cold glass of Kinnie, and reminisce about all things family and waterpolo related.

Enzo has been Club President for four years now, and has formed part of the committee for at least 30. He is a lifelong waterpolo aficionado and started playing at the age of ten. He then moved on to the main team and ‘retired’ at the age of 31. Now his two boys have taken up his mantle and they both play for the club.

After berating me for not knowing enough about the history of waterpolo in Gozo, Enzo relates the Otters story to me. The club was set up in 1971 and this year they celebrated their 40th Anniversary with a big bash held at Ta’ Cenc Hotel on 7 May. In its first year, the Otters team played in the second division of the Gozitan Waterpolo League, however managed to push their way up to the first division by the end of the season. By the late 70s the Otters were proving to be far better than other Gozitan teams and they were winning all the awards going. So in 1982 they started participating in the Malta Waterpolo League in the second division.

During the 1980s the waterpolo scene in Gozo was experiencing a downtrend and by the 90s all clubs other than The Otters had all but dismantled. In 1995, The Otters constructed new premises and new facilities, and interest in the game started looking up.

Today their under-16 team competes in the Malta league, they have a nursery swimming school and four Maltese nationals and two Hungarians on their main team. They also host teams from other countries, and Otters players have travelled to Germany, Holland, Sicily and Prague to play against foreign teams.

However much they have achieved, though, the situation is far from perfect. For Gozitan waterpolo players to have a serious chance in Malta, and for the sport to achieve the following it deserves, there are issues that need to be addressed.

The main sticking point is that there is no freshwater pool available in Gozo for all year round use. They still have to train and play their sport in the open sea, which means that they are limited to the summer months and, even then, only when the weather and other conditions

permit. Malta has had a freshwater pool since 1993 and this puts Gozo 20 years behind the larger island in terms of professionalism. The Government had apparently promised Gozo a pool in 1991; however they are still waiting for this to be approved – whilst Malta now has two national pools.

Having a national pool in Gozo will solve myriad problems. For starters they will stop being held hostage by jellyfish. As they invade the playing area in Marsalforn Bay and sting the players, the Otters club members need to think up ways to keep the jellies out. The best-working method devised so far is hanging nets off floating ballasts down to the sea bed and circling the perimeter of the playing area – however this is not foolproof and jellyfish still manage to get through.

Another problem they currently face is that any waterpolo referee at the moment has no ‘catwalk’ or solid perimeter around the playing area on which to walk to be able to judge the game from close quarters. From his present position on the rocks, the game is an uncomfortable distance away. MEPA have not allowed Otters to build a catwalk as the coast line is protected – so the Gozitans are understandably very aggravated.

Enzo believes that enthusiasm for waterpolo is not very high in Gozo because there isn’t a strong tradition of competitiveness in the sport. Having a freshwater pool would help them address this problem. They would have a fixed base and so could start attracting kids to take it up as a sport and keep practicing it seriously. At present, if any children are interested in waterpolo, it tends to be a short-lived summer hobby – fast forgotten once they return to school. They could train their junior and main teams more professionally and encourage other teams to form or re-form. Once the element of

A national pool in Gozo will solve myriad problems.

30 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Spirit

From Left: The Otters face numerous challenges, including having to train in the sea while braving jellyfish. Nevertheless, they are part of the Malta league and fare well.

competition returns to the island they could begin trying to work on sports tourism.

It’s a big plan, but one which needs to be kick-started – and The Otters Club can’t do this on their own.

As I look out onto the beautiful Marsalforn Bay, where I spent much of my youth, I recognise the validity of the club’s claims. Had it been an option, I probably would have been one of the first kids on Gozo to cheer

on a local waterpolo team. As it was, I didn’t even realise the sport existed until I started spending my summer holidays in Malta.

Notwithstanding all the stumbling blocks, The Otters ASC has a history to be proud of, and I raise my glass of Kinnie to it and apologise for only thinking of them as a great restaurant with a stunning view!

www.letsgozo.com.mt 31

The place where the magic happens – Mekren's traditional wood oven.

A Family Affair Coryse Borg visits Mekren’s Bakery in Nadur and samples a taste of days gone by which still lives on today.

32 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

flavours

www.letsgozo.com.mt 33

Heaven on a plate The best thing to do with Maltese bread or ftira is to make the traditional hobz biz-zejt – a tasty snack that many people consider to be the national dish of Malta (together with rabbit). There are many ways to make hobz biz-zejt; one tried-and-tested option is to rub the bread with fresh tomatoes or tomato paste, drizzle it with olive oil and fill it with a mix of tuna, olives and capers. Optional ingredients can also include bigilla (a traditional Maltese dip made out of beans) and gbejniet. Place the bread on a plate and enjoy! It’s the perfect snack for any season.

34 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

The dough at Mekren is produced in the most traditional way, and takes four hours to complete. It is then baked in wood ovens.

flavours

Queues often form outside Mekren as locals stand in line for bread & pizza.

When I visit Mekren’s Bakery, located on a

bustling street in Nadur, it is 1.30 on a Saturday afternoon during the summer and the place is packed with young men on their lunch break waiting for their pizza order. And when I say packed, I really mean it – I can hardly make my way from the front door through to the proper bakery (which is hardly bigger than a shed) to speak to the owner Nancy Buttigieg.

Finally, amongst murmured, “’excuse mes” and a bit of gentle shoving, I manage to get to the front of the line and glimpse the place where the magic of baking happens, and all in traditional wood ovens. Here, Nancy and her 20-year-old son Matthew are frantically trying to keep up with their customers - Matthew shoving the dough into the oven and Nancy preparing it for collection.

After a few minutes, I catch Nancy’s eye. I conduct the interview outside in the sweltering heat, as there is no way to make myself heard over the babble of voices inside. In the meantime, the photographer is busy snapping shots. Nancy takes a moment to smooth down her hair and grab a clean apron before she poses, nervously, for her close up.

We sit down on an old rickety bench outside the bakery and Nancy tells me that the bakery has been in her family since her ‘nannu’ - her grandfather – set it up on the very spot on which we are standing. In time, it was then passed down to her father. Her older brother would have been in charge currently, were it not for a cruel twist of fate that saw him pass away completely unexpectedly earlier this year, leaving a young son behind. Nancy’s striking blue-green eyes tear up as she tells me that the bakery is now being managed by her husband Anthony, her son Matthew – a graduate of the Malta Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) – and herself, no stranger to the bakery of course, as she has been working here for the past 33 years.

We’re joined by Matthew, who refuses, point blank, to be photographed; he is very shy apparently. He tells me that they get up at four o’clock every morning to ensure that the bread and pizza dough is ready for consumption by the early crowds. He stresses that their hobz Malti – the typical crusty sourdough Maltese bread - is made in the ‘proper’, traditional method, which means it takes over four hours to prepare each batch.

The bakery is obviously doing very well and Nancy says that this is primarily because it has such as good, long-established reputation, but also because they strive to keep their prices low. I remark that there are a lot of people and she smiles, saying that I should have been there in the morning when there were people queuing round the block to purchase fresh bread. She says that they had already baked and sold over 150 pizzas by one o’ clock.

People travel from all over Gozo to buy bread from Mekren. In fact, Matthew tells me that, sometimes, they have to turn people away as they run out of bread and that they return twice or even three times to make sure they manage to buy some.

The bakery is so well known around Gozo that Matthew is never called by his name, but rather by his nickname, ‘Mekren’. People who frequent the bakery are fond of saying: “Tal-Mekren, kollox tajjeb” (“Everything is good at Mekren”).

When pressed, they both say that they would recommend that first-time clients should try their best-selling ‘Maltija’ pizza, made in the traditional way with a thin crust, and with a topping of anchovies, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic, olives and basil. Another delicacy is their closed pizza made up of gbejniet (round cheeselets made from goats’ or sheep milk, salt and rennet), potatoes and egg. And of course, their Maltese bread and ftira (a kind of flat bread) are the stuff of legends.

As of late, they have also been selling roast pork baked in the wood oven.

And now it is time for me to sample the wares firsthand. I opt for the gbejna pizza and I am not disappointed as it is simply one of the most satisfying, delicious pizzas I have ever tasted! www.letsgozo.com.mt 35

36 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Through the key hole

01

Il-Hgejjeg ta’ San Gwann: This was again enacted on the imposing Citadel bastions.

It included an animated cultural tour, followed by an evening of music, folklore and food.

01 01

01

02

The New Frontiers – Opera vs Pop Under the Stars: The Gozo Youth Orchestra, in collaboration with the American Embassy and the Culture Office of the Gozo Ministry, presented this exciting event within the courtyard of the ministry in Victoria.

03

04

03

Delicata/Nadur Wine Festival: Nadur Local Council and Emmanuel Delicata Winemakers held this annual festival at Gnien il-Kunsill at the beginning of September.

03 05

04

Rock the Citadel: The Friends of the Sick and Elderly in Gozo held this fundraising concert in Citadel Square, Victoria, on 19 August.

02

03

06

05

06

05

Ta’ Mena Food & Wine Festival: The Ta’ Mena estate was the perfect setting for a wine and food festival held on 12 August.

06

Banif Bank Art Exhibition: Earlier this summer, Banif Bank hosted an exhibition with works from four prominent Gozitan artists - Victor Agius, Mario Cassar, Justin Falzon and Paul Stellini, at its branch in Victoria, Gozo. Pictured left: Marie Josette Vella Magro, manager for the Banif Branch in Gozo, with artists Justin Falzon, Paul Stellini and Mario Cassar. Right: Mario Cassar and Justin Falzon with a guest. www.letsgozo.com.mt 37

Calendar of Events

Just round the corner As autumn sets in, Gozo is buzzing thanks to a calendar of brilliant events that promise more than a little something for everyone.

Festubru

Tradition, Food & Folklore Lunzjata Valley, Kercem, 8pm

7-9

October

J

ourney back in time to celebrate Gozo’s incredible heritage with this year’s eagerly-anticipated Festubru, held in the beautiful Lunzjata Valley.

Now in its third edition, the festival blends folklore activities, events for all the family and great food and wine.

As with past editions, the event will open with a guided tour through the valley for school children on Friday; members of the public wishing to take part in a similar expedition can do so on Saturday evening. This year, Festubru will also highlight different traditional forms of trade, including the making of bizzilla (lace) and wool, as well as wood and stone carvings. On the final night, a solemn celebration (at 5.30pm) will be held for the first time ever in Lunzjata Chapel, followed by a lively folk performance into the evening.

September 2011

18

Qala International Folk Festival: St Joseph Square, Qala,

Ends tonight (18th September) – 8pm If you’re looking for a fantastic way to spend your Sunday evening, then head straight to Qala. Here the sixth edition of the well-loved International Folk Festival will come to a close after four jampacked days of music, colour, songs and dancing.

Plus, this morning at 10am, you can witness a traditional Gozitan wedding, complete with truly awe-inspiring costumes. Finally, the festival will come to a spectacular close tonight with a Grand Finale that kicks off at 7.30pm.

19

Spring Awakening: Citadella Centre for Culture & Arts, 8pm

The Citadella Centre for Culture & Arts is fast gain-

38 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

ing a reputation for producing excellent dramatic productions that audiences really enjoy. This fabulous musical, which was a Broadway and West End hit a few years ago, is their next show. It takes the form of a musical adaptation of the controversial 1892 German play of the same name.

Grand Opera Concert:

Aurora Opera House, 7.30pm, €10/15 Following on from the success of the Puccini 150th Anniversary Concert held in 2008, the Classique Foundation is once again presenting a fantastic vocal and orchestral concert. It will feature both the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and two internationally-renowned singers, Maria Pia Piscitelli and tenor Francesco Anile, who will be under the direction of Mro Joseph Debrincat. The concert will include arias and duets from the most popular operas by Bellini, Verdi, Puccini, Verdi, Mascagni, Leoncavallo, Bizet, Cilea and Giordano, among others. It will also feature overtures and ballet music from the operatic repertoire.

24

World Tourism Day

To mark World Tourism Day, the Malta Tourism Authority has planned various activities in Marsalforn and Victoria. At 11am the Astra Folk Group will perform in St George’s Square, while the Aurora Folk Group will perform in Cathedral Square, both in Victoria. Additionally, museums and sites will be open to the public thanks to Wirt Ghawdex, both in the morning and afternoon. Finally, a multi-ethnic soiree will take place in Marsalforn from 8pm, featuring Egyptian, Latin, Spanish and Gozitan dance.

October 2011

8-9

Xaghra Fig Festival: Victory Square, Xaghra

A haven for fig lovers, this now-annual event celebrates everything about this delicious fruit. An exhibition of fig-made products will take place in the

Calendar of events

main square on Saturday, with live music to ensure a great atmosphere. The event will continue until 1pm on Sunday, including the signing of a twinning agreement between the Xaghra Local Council and the Comune of San Michele Salentino in Italy.

15

Tosca by G Puccini: Aurora

Opera House, 7.30pm - €45, €60, €70

Excitement is already brewing for the Aurora Opera Theatre’s 2011 production – Tosca by G Puccini.

The show returns to the theatre for the third time, following on from Bizet’s Carmen, held last year.

Tosca is widely regarded to be Tosca’s best opera, and is a liberetto in three acts. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will be taking part, directed by the Aurora’s resident conductor Mro Colin Attard.

16

Feast of Christ the King:

Christ The King Church, Nazzarenu In celebration of this special feast, solemn high mass will held at 5pm, at Christ The King Church, and presided over by H. L. Bishop Mario Grech, together with the Reverend Chapter and Clergy of Xaghra Collegiate Church. At 6pm it will be followed by a solemn procession with the Holy Eucharist through the main streets of the Nazzarenu community. To finish the evening off nicely, Nazzarenu Square will come to life after 8pm for live music and a wine tasting competition.

20

John Paul II Documentary Premier: Teatru Aurora, 8pm, €6

The extraordinary story of Pope John Paul’s incredible life, titled I Kept Looking for You, is coming to Teatru Aurora. The documentary was filmed in 13 countries, including Malta, and the gala premiere will be held under the patronage of President George Abela.

26

Swim to See:

Mgarr Harbour, 6am-5pm Do something for a great cause by showing your support for Swim to See. Organised by Simon Zammit and Sammy Attard, these two friends plan to swim the 37km round Gozo to raise money for the Malta Guide Dog Association. The duo hopes to collect €1,000 per km, aiming to raise €37,000 through their 11-hour endeavor. The funds will go towards the 2,500 visually impaired people currently waiting for guide dogs in Malta and Gozo.

27-29

Norma by V Bellini: Teatru Astra, 8pm – €70

As part of the 10th edition of Festival Mediterranea, Vincenzo Bellini’s Norma has been chosen as this year’s highly-anticipated annual operatic

24 September production. This very demanding opera will star Greek soprano Dimitra Theodossiou in the title role, playing opposite Italian tenor Antonino Interisano. Artistic production is in the hands of Enrico Stinchelli, and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will be under the baton of Prof Mro Joseph Vella.

27Oct-19Nov

Festival Mediterranea

This year hailing its 10th edition, Festival Mediterranea is an annual celebration of culture. Audiences will enjoy opera, classical and symphonic music, a wealth of archeology and heritage, folklore and cuisine. Patrons can relish the beautiful backdrop that Gozo offers, while exploring the diverse events on offer.

BBQ Nights with live music entertainment Join us every Saturday for our BBQ Nights at our breathtaking open-air terrace. €21.00 (Children aged 5-11 50% discount)

Sunday Buffet Lunch

Get away from it all…

Indulge in a relaxing break in Gozo at Hotel Calypso right on the water’s edge.

Eat all you can from an array of Antipasti, Salads, Pasta, Cold Cuts, Fish and tempting desserts for only €23.00 per person.

Kids buffet menus are available at half the price.

For further information please visit our website or contact reservations on Tel: 2156 2000, E-mail: reservations@hotelcalypsogozo.com Hotel Calypso, Marsalforn Bay, Island of Gozo, Malta Tel: (+356) 21562000 E-mail: info@hotelcalypsogozo.com

Join our facebook page today!

www.letsgozo.com.mt 39

Advertorials

Antica Gozo Antica Gozo is a small cafeteria in the heart of St George's Square. This one-of-a-kind cafeteria, which will impress at first sight, is bursting with character and emotion. Antica Gozo offers traditional local specialities, international coffees, wines, beers, alcohol and platters, as well as traditional local dishes. Antica Gozo is the result of a dream come true for its owner, and he now looks forward to sharing it with you. Antica Gozo - the cafeteria with a living heart.

Antica Gozo, St Georges Square Victoria, Gozo. m: 7955 4274 | e: mmaagency@gmail.com

Arzella Ristorante Treat yourself to a magnificent seafood dinner at sunset or unwind over a relaxing lunch whilst enjoying breathtaking views of sun and sea. Sample crisp, fruity wines as an accompaniment to mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine, from our house specialty mixed fresh fish platter and shellfish, to tasty aromatic pastas, meat, chicken and an ever-changing list of specials, lovingly prepared by our chef with the freshest ingredients. Ristorante Arzella, where our staff will be more than happy to serve you and ensure a truly positive dining experience.

Arzella Ristorante, Il-Menqa, Marsalforn, Gozo. t: 2155 4662 | m: 9927 1992 | e: bookings@ristorantearzella.com

Azzur Window Wine Bar And Restaurant Uniquely situated on the water’s edge of the picturesque Dwejra inland sea, our restaurant is renowed for our Local and Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you prefer dining indoor or al fresco on the terrace with breath taking views of the inlet sea, we offer you a special dining experience away from the crowd enjoying freshly prepared and authentic dishes both for lunch and dinner.

Azure Window Restaurant, Dwejra Bay, San Lawrenz, Gozo. t: 2156 6560 | m: 7906 7196 | e: g.cassar@hotmail.com

Dolphin pools ltd Now is the time to plan on investing in a better and more enjoyable lifestyle for all the family, whilst enhancing and adding value to your property. Dolphin Pools, our Island's leading swimming pool company, can offer professional guidance, advice and assistance in making your dream come true. Whether you want to install a garden pool, indoor or rooftop pool, which are increasing in popularity, we are there to help you make the right choice at a surprisingly affordable price.

Dolphin Pools – for all your pool, spas and sauna requirements, Dolphin Pools Gozo. t: 2156 6990, Malta: 2123 0855 | w: www.dolphinpools.com.mt

Gozo Pools Ltd Gozo Pools Ltd. specialise in anything to do with swimming pools and spas. Whether you need top of the range spas, infra-red cabins, pool tiles, equipment and chemicals, we have what you need at prices you can afford. At Gozo Pools, our goal is to provide you with courteous, expedient, professional service of the highest calibre. At Gozo Pools, the customer always comes first and we will endeavour to reach your expectations with a high quality service.

Gozo Pools Ltd, 75, Capuchin's Street, Victoria, Gozo. t: 2155 4251 | m: 9949 3767 | e: info@gozopools.com | w: www.gozopools.com 40 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Advertorials

Il-Kartell Restaurant Since 1973, Il-Kartell Restaurant has become the venue where friends meet to enjoy fine food and wine. We offer an extensive Mediterranean and Gozitan menu at a reasonable price.

Il-Kartell Restaurant, Marina Street, Marsalforn Bay, Gozo. t: 2155 6918 | m: 7900 1965 e: info@il-kartellrestaurant.com | w: www.il-kartellrestaurant.com

It-tmun Restaurant At the end of 2008, one of the best family-run restaurants in Gozo closed its doors. Operated by the Buttigieg family, it-Tmun had been known for its great food, atmosphere and service for 21 years. Eight months later is was reborn as it-Tmun Mgarr, located in the main harbour. It has quickly become popular with locals and tourists alike, especially as it is conveniently located so close to the ferry. Tmun Mgarr is open for lunch and dinner.

It-tmun Restaurant, Martinu Garces Street, Mgarr, Gozo. t: 2156 6276 | m: 7944 6832 | e: info@tmunmgarr.com | w: www.tmunmgarr.com

La Stanza Restaurant Stephan & Melissa welcome you to La Stanza; a 16th century battery built by the Knights of St John, this beautifully converted restaurant now delivers in a warm and inviting atmosphere, local and Mediterranean cuisine at its best. Dine inside during winter or outside on the terrace in summer. The menu list includes dishes such as Gozo cheese filled-ravioli, rabbit stew, fresh fish, prawns and calamari amongst other innovative special dishes of chef-patron Stephan Tabone. We shall endeavor to make your evening a “memorable� experience.

La Stanza Restaurant, Triq l-Imghallem, Victoria, Gozo. t: 2155 8047 | m: 7971 0710, 9926 0708

Latini Restaurant Latini is a family-run restaurant offering a contemporary menu with a wide selection of dishes, all served in stylishly, modern and warm surroundings. Particular attention is paid to the quality and origin of ingredients. Organic produce is used whenever possible in keeping with the commitment of the Chefs to use the finest fresh, natural food. All dishes can be complemented by the extensive and well-chosen wine list which reflects the light, modern and unpretentious cuisine.

Latini Restaurant, Il-Menqa, Marsalforn, Gozo. t: 2155 0950 | e: latinirestaurant@hotmail.com

Massar Winery A family-owned boutique winery offering a tour around its private estate and winery. The owners themselves take care of the visitors and a 90-minute tour can showcase the passion of the work in the owner's vineyard and offer the experience of a true taste of Gozo's finest wines. Mouthwatering Gozitan finger foods are also offered and visitors can enjoy the all round spectacular and unspoiled landscape of the medieval village of Gharb. Don't miss this experience next time you visit Gozo. Booking is required.

Massar Winery, Gozo. m: Marisa: 9928 8730, Anthony: 9986 3529 | w: www.massarwinery.com www.letsgozo.com.mt 41

Advertorials

Menqa L’Antika Restaurant What makes Menqa L’Antika stand out from the crowd is the attention to detail. The décor and ambience combined with the high quality raw produce result in an incomparable dining experience. The talented chef, Gordon Camilleri, whom through experience has tasted most Mediterranean and European fusions, has gone back to childhood to bring you the original immaculate taste of Gozo’s native kitchen while using the islands’ tasteful produce.

Menqa L’Antika Restaurant, Marina Str, Marsalforn, Gozo. t: 2730 0309 | m: 79203623, 79268640 | w: www.menqalantika.com

Mobydick Complex Exclusive self catering family-run apartments right on the seafront with balconies overlooking the bay, just three metres from the sea. One or two bedroom apartments served with lift, TV and WIFI. Complemented with a ground floor restaurant serving genuine food from different cuisines, at reasonable prices to suit all pockets.

Mobydick Complex, 4, Marina Street, Xlendi Bay, Gozo. t: 2156 1518, 2155 9632 | m: 7953 9117, 7925 3255 e: mobydickcomplex@gmail.com | w: www.mobydickgozo.com

Nicky Saliba For all types of building and restoration of rubble walls, kindly contact: Nicky Saliba Zoya, Skapuccina Street Zebbug, Gozo t: 2156 1376 | m: 9988 8471

Pebbles Restaurant Pebbles Restaurant is where you will find some of the most sumptuous dishes from the Mediterranean, all in a convenient and relaxed setting in the heart of Marsalforn Bay. All our food is cooked to order. And our expert chefs use only the finest ingredients, sourced locally from the most reputable butchers, fishmongers, green grocers, bakers, and internationally from carefully-sourced specialist food suppliers. We are open daily from 6pm onwards and also open for Sunday lunch.

Pebbles Restaurant, Misrah Mikelang Refalo, Marsalforn, Gozo. t: 2155 6151 | e: pebblesgozo@onvol.net

Pulena Restaurant Pulena is a long established family run restaurant situated right on the Marsalforn seafront. We pride ourselves on serving quality authentic food at a reasonable price, with friendly and efficient service. Pulena offers a wide variety of dishes, including our delicious home-made pasta and an extensive choice of pizza; in addition we specialise in fish and meat dishes. We use only the freshest ingredients, sourced directly from the island wherever possible.

Pulena Restaurant, Marina Street (il-Menqa), Marsalforn, Gozo t: 2155 9777 | m: 9942 0881 42 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Advertorials

Qbajjar Restaurant Tucked quietly, overlooking the beautiful Qbajjar Bay on the island of Gozo, lies this exquisite seafront restaurant. With a well-prepared family-priced menu, an abundance of fresh fish dishes and expertly cooked Mediterranean recipes, this is a place not to miss for a truly unique dining experience. Serving fresh fish, fresh pasta, meat & poultry, salads, soups, risottos, pizza and children's menu.

Qbajjar Restaurant, Qbajjar Seafront, Qbajjar Bay, Gozo. t: 2155 1124 | m: 99849136 e: info@qbajjarrestaurant.com | w: www.qbajjarrestaurant.com

RE/MAX Gozo Office RE/MAX, the global real estate network, has grown from strength to strength and is currently present in 80 countries with over 115,000 agents worldwide. The Gozo office, situated in the heart of Victoria (Pjazza It-Tokk), is renowned for having the largest selection of farmhouses and apartments both for sale and letting. Should you be interested in viewing some properties, our professional and friendly staff will be more than pleased to assist you. Our agents will carry out all negotiations to obtain the best price and the most favourable conditions, agreeable to both vendors and purchasers. To view our latest properties please visit our website on www.remax-malta.com or call 2156 6284.

SPITERI CATERING EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Spiteri Catering Equipment & Supplies are distributers of industrial catering equipment whom provide a wide range of products to suit everyone in the commercial business.

Our establishment caters from supply of utensils through to the design and installation of complete industrial kitchens & bars. At our showroom one can find kitchen refrigeration, cooking equipment, industrial & modular coldrooms, commercial dish & glass washers, meat & deli refrigerated displays, supermarket shelving and equipment, restaurant & bar furniture, professional crockery, cutlery and glassware amongst others.

Mons. P. Pace Street, Victoria, Gozo. t: 2156 0779 | e: spiteri@onvol.net

Ta’ Petra Farmhouse Ta' Petra, is a, beautifully furnished house of character located in a very quiet location in the village of Nadur, Gozo. Ramla beach is 2 Kilometres away. This house consists of 5 bedrooms, 4 located on the first floor and the fifth bedroom on the second floor as well as a garage. A lovely, small welcoming hallway, opens on a nice sized combined kitchen and dining room and an arched living room. The south facing pool is located at the back of the house, where you will also find lots of room for outside dining, BBQ, and sunbathing.

Mercieca Farmhouses, Gozo. t: 2155 8426 | m: 9924 8390 | e: merciecafarmhouses@gmail.com

Ta’ Silvana Farmhouse Ta' Silvana farmhouse is a 4 bedroomed rustic property located in a tranquil location in the village of Nadur. The popular Ramla Beach is only 5minutes drive away, while the village centre is 10 minutes walk from the accommodation. The entrance to this property leads directly to the living area and the combined kitchen and dining. Both areas open up on to the pool and sundeck equipped with sun loungers, table with chairs and BBQ. The double bedroom is located also on the ground floor, while three twin bedrooms are situated on the first floor.

Mercieca Farmhouses, Gozo. t: 2155 8426 | m: 9924 8390 | e: merciecafarmhouses@gmail.com www.letsgozo.com.mt 43

Advertorials

The Boat House Restaurant Located in the picturesque bay of Xlendi, our restaurant takes local and Mediterranean dining to a new level of satisfaction, serving fresh fish, seafood specialities, pasta & aromatic meat dishes.

The Boat House Restaurant, Xatt ix-Xlendi, Xlendi Bay, Gozo. t: 2156 9153 | m: 9947 7207 e: info@theboathousegozo.com | w: www.theboathousegozo.com

The Leather house The Leather House is a manufacturer, retailer and wholesaler of customised leather articles at unbeatable prices. Goods include: wallets, handbags, purses, belts, cowhide rugs, diary covers, desk sets, promotional gifts, upholstery leather and many more. We also create customised restaurant menu covers and hotel accessories with embossed or printed logos. Come and watch our craftsmen at work everyday from 9am till 6pm.

The Leather House , 25, Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village, Gharb, Gozo. m: 9982 3638 | w: www.theleatherhouseonline.com

PROBABLY THE BEST CLUB

ON THE ISLANDS but don’t take our word for it www.lagrottaleisure.com

Published on July 30, 2011

44 Let’s Gozo September & October 2011

Advertorial

fresh melon & mint ice-cream

Please ur be to o subscri og

One treat which certainly makes up for the hot to rec : s e p i weather is ice-cream. c latest re It’s creamy… cold… ious.com sweet… you know what c i l o z o www.g we mean… it’s delicious! Getting to the point, ice-cream is quite easy to make… especially when you pour your heart into it. Therefore here we present a nice and easy recipe to make your own ice-cream. The best part of this recipe is that we are using fresh products which are grown or produced locally. We hope you enjoy it!

Ingredients 1/2 Melon (preferably the sweet cantaloupe type) 300g of plain yoghurt 2 Tablespoons of Gozo honey A handful of fresh mint Method Dice the melon into thumb-sized cubes and place in a freezer bag. Freeze overnight.

Place the frozen melon to a food processor and blend until the melons have been smoothly chopped. Add in the yoghurt, honey and mint and continue blending.

Once ready, serve immediately or place in the freezer.

Brought to you by

Mons. Lwigi Vella Street, Victoria, Gozo For reservations please call 9901 9270 or 2701 9270.

Photo: Paul Scicluna

e bl onlineive our

Next

Issue

out with the sunday times on 20 November

Turn the pages of our next edition as we delve into the fantastically festive spirit of Gozo, discovering the characters and customs behind some of our favourite Christmas traditions.

In just

two years

we have ...

Increased renewable energy produced in Gozo

Cleaned valleys to harvest more rain water

Planted thousands of trees and flowers across the island

Fostered the creation of support groups for vulnerable persons

Funded a large number of ecoGozo projects by Local Councils and NGO’s

Introduced Education for Sustainable Development in schools

Issued eco-friendly schemes for farmers

Cleaned beaches and sea beds

Reduced CO2 emissions from the roads

Developed a human resources strategy for Gozo

and this is only a fraction of what we’re doing. www.eco-gozo.com

Gotta go to Gozo

Open ALL DAY on Independence Day, 21 September 2011 fashion + home: 9am-7Pm | foodstore: 8am-7:30Pm oPen on sUndaYs | fashion + home: 10am-1Pm - 4Pm-7Pm | foodstore: 9am-1Pm - 4Pm-7Pm

gotta go to

fashion - home - food

arkadia Commercial Centre, Victoria - Gozo | www.arkadia.com.mt