Żebbuġ

Żebbuġ is a hilltop village on the northwest coast of Gozo, Malta's smaller island, known for its quiet countryside, sweeping views toward the Mediterranean and long tradition of skilled crafts. Its Maltese name means olives or olive trees, a reminder of the groves that once covered the surrounding slopes.

The village centre is dominated by the parish church of Santa Marija, dedicated to the Assumption, which is one of the oldest parishes in Gozo, established in 1688. The church is remarkable for its rich use of local onyx, with the high altar, choir and baptistery sculpted from the semi-precious stone, while the nearby Ta' Ġurdan Lighthouse overlooks the coastal landscape.

Żebbuġ remains closely tied to Gozitan traditions, including lace-making, weaving and sheep's-wool blankets, and its surrounding pastures produce some of the island's finest ġbejniet cheeselets. Carefully maintained street niches and shrines, such as the Madonna taċ-Ċiċri, reflect the village's strong religious and cultural heritage.

The village sits close to the bays of Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Xwejni, which shelter fishing boats and are popular for swimming, diving and the historic Xwejni salt pans. Żebbuġ itself is mainly residential and peaceful, while hotels, guesthouses and restaurants are largely concentrated in nearby Marsalforn and Victoria.

For travellers, Żebbuġ offers an authentic, slower-paced Gozitan base near coastal attractions, walking routes and traditional crafts, making it well suited to both leisure visitors and those seeking a calm setting for longer stays.