A replica of a traditional għajn tal-ħasselin (wash house) has been rebuilt in Apparition Square, Għajnsielem. The wash house consists of an arched room with six stone washing basins.

The project, undertaken by the local council in 2012, received a grant of €70,000 under the second Ecogozo scheme for local councils.

The original wash house, whichclosed in 1953, was built in the square by Grand Master Ramon Perellos in 1710 to serve the growing population of the community living in the vicinity. It drew water from a natural spring, Għajn Salem, which gave the village its name.

During excavation works, parts of the original wash house’s façade, back and side walls and floor tiles were discovered still in their original state. These have been incorporated in the replica. A rock-hewn staircase leading to an underground World War II shelter at the site was also incorporated in the rebuilt wash house. A small belvedere was built on top of the building.

The works were carried out under the supervision of an archaeologist from the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage.

The rebuilt wash house was inaugurated by Gozo Minister Anton Refalo.

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