‘Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem’, is a unique attraction, being organised for the first time at the fields known as ‘Ta’ Passi’, in the limits of the Gozitan village of Ghajnsielem. This activity is being organised through the collaboration of the Ghajnsielem Local Council with various other groups and clubs within the village having the voluntary participation of a good number of villagers including youths and children.

All of them have been working throughout the past months in order to see this dream, which was the brainchild of Mr Franco Ciangura, coming true within their locality. The nativity village has transformed 20,000 sqm of unused land, creating a typical atmosphere aimed at evoking the Christmas spirit amongst all those who visit it. It has also proved to be a unique attraction for an increasing number of locals as well as tourists and Maltese.

This atmosphere was created during one of the activities organised in connection with this event, now that Christmas is fast approaching. This was an activity specifically organised for students attending schools within the Gozo College as well as for others who attend church schools in Gozo, who were accompanied by their teachers and some parents.

Year Six students from Gozo College Ghajnsielem Primary School animated the nativity village together with other actors all hailing from Ghajnsielem.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, together with Mrs Kate Gonzi, visited the village during this activity. They were accompanied by Ghajnsielem Mayor Mr Francis Cauchi and the archpriest Mgr. Frankie Bajada. Representatives from the education sector in Gozo included Chev frank Gatt, Gozo College principal as well as Ms Carol Debono from the Association of School Councils within the Directorate for Educational Services.

Minister Debono together with Mrs Gonzi visited the environs where they could admire scenes of particular atrractions such as a farm with animals, shepherds, a carpentery shop, blacksmith, bakery, as well as a fruit and vegetable market. The main attraction is certainly the nativity scene including Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus. The atmosphere was complimented by the children’s reaction together with the presence of disabled persons, and groups of elderly persons residing at Residenza Sant’Anna and the male geriatric ward within the Gozo General Hospital. These, together with the students gathered near the grotto where they met with the Minister and Mrs Gonzi.

Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem was inaugurated by the Prime Minister, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, on the 6th of December. Since then activities have continuously been organised and they will continue to be open to the public up to Saturday 4th januray 2009. Besides the nativity village other activities are being held under a specially mounted tent in a nearby square. The village is opened daily but it is animated during weekends and public holidays.

More information can be found at www.ghajnsielem.com or from the office of the Local Council on telephone 21561515. It is envisaged that besides attracting numerous Gozitans this activity will also prove as a unique attraction to many Maltese who opt to cross over to the sister island during the festive season.