The three friaries in Gozo

Abstract

Down through the ages the isle of Gozo has been less exposed to foreign influence than the next-door island of Malta. Though a close parallelism exists between the histories of the two Islands, Gozitan life has remained unspoilt and its religious pulse beats with nearly the same rhythm as in days gone by. Were a foreigner to pay even a flying visit to this quiet island, he would be struck by the deep religious feeling of the people. One look around him tells of the attachment the Gozitans have for their Faith. The island is dotted with ancient churches and wayside chapels; the streets abound with niches holding images of saints. A dainty statue of the Madonna, with fresh flowers and a lighted lamp in front of it, adorns many public places; shops display church notices side by side with business advertisements; church bells peal from far and near, filling the air with deep resonance; religious processions are a frequent sight. To ·put it in a nutshell, Gozo beats any other place for its daily show of public expression of Catholicism. What the eyes of the foreigner may perhaps not notice are the three friaries at the capital city of Victoria. The three religious communities have not only looked after the spiritual welfare of the Gozitans but have also enriched Gozo's chequered history.