Żejtun, local council in Malta
Żejtun is a local council area in Malta's southern region, defined by narrow winding streets lined with old houses featuring arches, carved windows, and ornate balconies in medieval and Baroque styles. The town contains multiple churches and chapels, including the striking Baroque church of Saint Catherine, along with quiet gardens and hidden squares tucked throughout its layout.
Żejtun was officially recognized as a town in the late 1700s and given its current name, having previously been part of a larger region. The settlement dates back roughly 800 years and held strategic importance during the Great Siege of 1565, when local militia responded quickly to Ottoman forces approaching nearby.
The name Żejtun comes from the Arabic word for olive, reflecting centuries of farming heritage in this region. Throughout the town, small shrines with saint statues stand outside homes, revealing how faith and local traditions shape daily life here.
Buses 81 and 82 run directly from Valletta to Żejtun's town center, with a heritage trail map available near the local council office close to the bus station. The town is best explored on foot at a leisurely pace, with quiet gardens providing rest stops and small cafes near the main square offering local snacks like pastizzi.
A carved stone balcony from the 16th or early 1700s adorns one house in town and is treasured by locals as a symbol of beauty and historical craftsmanship. This architectural detail reflects how residents take pride in preserving the small touches that connect them to their past.
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