The Church of St Cecilia on the island of Gozo is the title of a book by David Mallia, which has been published to coincide with the recent reopening of the newly restored medieval chapel dedicated to the saint in the limits of Għajnsielem.

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This old church has been acquired by the government and handed over to the NGO Wirt Għawdex, which during the last few years, embarked on its restoration with the financial help of the Gozo Ministry and Eco Gozo and sponsored by Baron Group.

The church, which had also been vandalised by arsonists, has been cleaned, carefully restored, had much of its soot removed, and fitted with wooden floors to allow glimpses of the original terrain. Eco-friendly lighting has also been provided both inside and outside the church.

The vicissitudes of this chapel have been scholarly researched and narrated in this book by Dr Mallia, who is an architect.

Dr Mallia elaborated on an article about St Cecilia’s church written many years ago. His final version, which he meticulously prepared, is well annotated.

Well-known photographer Daniel Cilia, who was entrusted with the design and production of the 56-page book, has donea marvellous job and contributed some beautiful photographs, including those of all of thegraffiti found on the chapel’s walls.

It is a treasure which this medieval monument deserves; Wirt Għawdex and all those involved should be congratulated.

The book is on sale from Wirt Għawdex sites and can be ordered by sending a cheque for €10 (postage included) payable to Wirt Għawdex addressed to Wirt Għawdex, Dar il-Lunzjata, Wied il-Lunzjata, Victoria, VCT 1680, and including the address where the book is to be sent.

More information is available at publications@wirtghawdex.org.