Xghajra

Xghajra (pronounced Shayra) is a small village of about 1600 inhabitants located on the eastern coast of Malta, on the outskirts of Zabbar. Xghajra is a Maltese word referring to an open heath, and its pretty seaside location led to its beginnings as a seaside resort for the Maltese living in the older surrounding villages, and it also attracted amateur fishermen. In Summer the population of Xghajra almost doubles.

The earliest known history in this area dates back to 1620, when Grand Master Wignacourt built a watch tower under the name of Tal-Grazzja (Our Lady of Grace). However this tower was demolished in 1888 by the British Colonial Services to make space for a larger Coastal Battery by the same name and which still stands today. To find it, seek out the premises of the Xghajra Local Council.

Xghajra is so tiny that it is easy to explore it all in just a couple of hours. It does not tend to attract many tourists because of its quite remote location, but if you like to go off the beaten track, it can prove to be an interesting trip with a enough pretty landmarks to explore.

Another war-time related place of interest is Wartime gun-post in the Swali Area where you can also enjoy a nice sea-view. Seek out id-Dar tas-Soru (the nun's house) and Saint Rocco Church. The Parish Church of Xghajra, dedicated to St Jacob, was built in 1933.