Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana has inaugurated the newly-restored barrakka in Victoria. Il-Barrakka, in Republic Street, is a terrace from where the Governor of Gozo presented the prizes (paljijiet) to horse races winners on the feast of Santa Marija on August 15 during the rule of the Knights of St John. 

The present building was built around 1733 and was probably de-signed by François de Mondion. It   replaced a late mediaeval barrakka. Originally, it was only a raised platform which was later arched by the British.

On August 15, 1746, the paljijiet (flags), made of damask, were distributed to the winners of horse races by Grand Master Emmanuel Pinto de Fonseca himself. His role was eventually taken over by the British Governor of Malta (1800-1964). Nowadays, il-paljijiet are presented by the Gozo Minister.

Judges and other dignitaries follow the races from the barrakka to the present day.

The barrakka was restored by the Gozo Ministry in collaboration with Wirt Għawdex.

To mark the occasion, sculptor Joe Xuereb is exhibiting a selection of his works at the barrakka.