Gozo has a long tradition of fine handwork, from lace made on doorsteps to delicate embroidery passed down through families. Thread Filigree: From Crafts to Couture puts that skill in the spotlight with a free exhibition inside the restored Xewkija Windmill, running from Thursday 12 to Monday 30 November 2026.
What it is about
The exhibition follows textile art from traditional, hand-made techniques to contemporary fashion. It looks at the craftsmanship and patience behind thread filigree work and shows how old methods still feed into modern couture today. It is organised by the Events Unit of the Cultural Heritage Directorate in Gozo.
The setting adds to the visit. Xewkija’s windmill dates back to the time of the Knights and was restored in recent years, so you get to see the old milling space as well as the exhibits.
Opening hours and side events
- Listed hours are 08:30 to 20:00, and entry is free.
- A hands-on workshop is listed for Saturday 21 November from 15:00 to 17:00. Booking details and any fee were not confirmed when we checked.
- A public discussion by Alda Bugeja is listed for Sunday 22 November from 11:00 to 12:30.
Hours at small venues can change, so call the Events Unit on 2210 0152 during office hours before making a special trip.
Tips for visitors
- The windmill is small, so allow 30 to 45 minutes and combine it with other stops nearby.
- The Xewkija Rotunda, with one of the largest church domes in Europe, is a short walk away.
- The prehistoric Ġgantija Temples in Xagħra are about 15 minutes by car.
- Art lovers can also see The Cave of Calypso exhibition in Victoria from 14 November.
Getting there
Xewkija sits between Mġarr Harbour and Victoria, so it is one of the easiest villages to reach from the ferry. Buses between Mġarr and Victoria pass through the village, and the windmill is on Triq il-Mitħna, a few minutes on foot from the main road. For more ideas across the islands, see our full events calendar.