Zejtun

Żejtun, also known by its historic title Città Beland, is the largest city in the southern region of Malta Island. It is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in the Maltese archipelago, with a parish that was already established by 1436. The name Żejtun is derived from the Arabic word for "olive," highlighting the town's centuries-old association with olive cultivation and oil pressing.

What defines Żejtun as a travel destination is its rich agricultural heritage, its historic urban core, and its role as the capital of Maltese folk singing, l-għana. The city is characterized by its grand baroque parish church, ancient chapels, and historic villas. It offers visitors an authentic look into Malta's southern heritage, combining archaeological depth with living traditions.

The best months to visit Żejtun are April, May, September, and October, when the weather is comfortable for outdoor exploration.

Two key events dominate the cultural calendar:

• The Feast of Saint Gregory (Easter Wednesday): A historic spring procession that culminates in a traditional pilgrimage and the year's first swim at nearby Marsaxlokk.
• Żejt iż-Żejtun (Late September): The annual olive festival celebrating the start of the olive-picking and pressing season, featuring traditional crafts, agricultural displays, and food tasting.
• The Feast of Saint Catherine of Alexandria (Summer): The town's main religious feast, featuring lively band marches and decorations.

Żejtun is easily reached by car via Route 1, the main dual carriageway serving the southern part of Malta Island. Multiple public bus routes, such as routes 80, 82, and 84, connect Żejtun directly to the capital city of Valletta, while route 119 connects it to Marsaxlokk and the airport.

Within the city, the historic center is compact and best navigated on foot. Walking allows visitors to explore the narrow streets, historic squares like Gregorio Bonnici Square, and the ancient church sites. For reaching nearby coastal areas like Marsaxlokk, a short bus ride or taxi is ideal.

• Żejtun - The historic city center, home to St. Catherine's Parish Church, the Roman Villa, and the historic St. Gregory's Church.

The culinary traditions of Żejtun are closely tied to its agricultural roots, especially olive oil production. Visitors should try dishes prepared with locally pressed olive oil, fresh Maltese bread (ħobż tal-Malti), and local olives. The city and its surroundings are also known for wine production, notably at the Marnisi wine-producing estate, which produces premium red wines.

Local bakeries like Ta' Barbetta (located at 101 Triq San Girgor) are famous for traditional Maltese bread, pastries, and savory snacks. For a full meal, local restaurants offer classic Maltese dishes like rabbit stew and fresh Mediterranean seafood.

Żejtun is celebrated as the hub of Maltese folk singing, l-għana, keeping this unique oral tradition alive through local singers and performances. The city also has a fierce musical rivalry between its two main band clubs, the Banda Beland and the Żejtun Band, which perform during the summer feast of St. Catherine.

Key festivals include the annual Żejt iż-Żejtun olive festival in September, which includes a traditional parade, blessing of the olives, and live folk music. The Feast of Saint Gregory on Easter Wednesday is another ancient tradition, combining a solemn religious procession with a popular social gathering in the afternoon.

• Visit the Żejtun Roman Villa: Explore the archaeological remains of a Roman agricultural villa, featuring original tiling, which shows the long history of olive oil production in the area.
• Admire St. Gregory's Old Church: Visit this historic 12th-century church (rebuilt in 1492), famous for its defensive architecture and role in the annual Easter Wednesday procession.
• Attend the Żejt iż-Żejtun Olive Festival: Join the September celebrations to watch the blessing of the olive harvest, taste freshly pressed oil, and listen to traditional l-għana folk singing.
• Tour the Marnisi Wine Estate: Visit the local vineyards to learn about southern Maltese viticulture and enjoy a tasting of premium estate-grown wines.
• Dine at Ta' Barbetta: Stop by this historic bakery on Triq San Girgor to sample freshly baked Maltese treats.