XLENDI
Within a Stone's throw of Munxar's parish
church there is Xlendi, a small fishing village. Wedged between majestic
cliffs to the south-west of Gozo, it is definitely one of the most picturesque
and romantic spots of the island. Xlendi is first recorded as xilendi
in a notarial contract of April 19, 1550. The emblem of Xlendi consists
of a promontory with a tower upon it rising from a blue sea on an orange
field with a M in the middle of a silver chief standing for Mary in reference
to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Xlendi Church The church is dedicated to
Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Its foundation stone was laid on August 17,
1969 and the church was consecrated on August 10, 1974. So intimately
connected with the sea-faring environment it is only natural to expect
Xlendi's motto to be Navium Tutela -Protection for vessels.
Xlendi Bay is a popular tourist resort encompassed within a sprawling
countryside. The lapping blue ripples which caress the golden sands in
Summer change to surging foam and heaving waves in mid-Winter. Otherwise,
foreigners and locals gaze spellbound as the copper red sunsets of late
Spring and early Autumn adorn the clear waters with gilded streaks on
a garnished phosphorescence. The shimmering silhouette of a majestic 17th
century tower adds to the enchantment of the spot.
The meandering countryside roads which lead to the heart of xlendi are a must for every tourist and visitor. A walk in the crisp and nimble air and the welcoming smile or acknowledging nod of the local farmer and shepherd are the right appetizer for a mouth watering tuck in at one of the friendly restaurants which surround the bay. Late in the evening, even by nightfall a moonlight excursion has all the ingredients of romance and fascination. Not to be missed - Xlendi's popular feast in honour of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in the later half of August. It combines a variety of entertainment, attractions and traditions set within an age old religious devotion to Our Lady who watches over the place with a loving protective look.
