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6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 20 DECEMBER 2024 CULTURE IF you're spending Christmas in Gozo this year, you're in for a treat. Just a short walk from Mġarr Har- bour and right next to Għajnsielem's charming main square lies Bethle- hem f'Għajnsielem, Gozo's magical Nativity Village. Covering 2e0,000 square metres of land known as Ta' Passi, this life-sized crib is one of the island's most cherished festive tradi- tions and a must-see during the hol- iday season. Now in its 15th edition, the Nativity Village was officially inaugurated by Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, Għa- jnsielem mayor Kevin Cauchi, and or- ganiser Franco Ciangura. It was bless- ed by Għajnsielem archpriest Frankie Bajada during an opening event host- ed by Lelio Spiteri, marking the start of a festive journey that will delight visitors of all ages. The magic of Bethlehem f'Għajn- sielem lies in its wonderful ability to bring the Christmas story to real life. The village truly is like stepping back in time to ancient Bethlehem. Hors- es power mill wheels, shepherds tend their flocks in rugged caves, and vil- lagers go about their daily tasks with incredible attention to detail. You'll also find live animals grazing in en- closures and a humble grotto where a couple lovingly care for their new- born, recreating the timeless Nativity scene. Conveniently located just a five-min- ute walk from the ferry terminal, the Nativity Village is perfect for visitors arriving on Gozo. It comes alive on select days throughout the festive sea- son, with local participants stepping into character to animate the village. Whether you visit in the crisp morn- ing air or the glow of the evening lights, the experience promises to be both heartwarming and magical. Bethlehem f'Għajnsielem will be open on December 20 (9:30am to 12pm), December 23 (4pm to 7:30pm), December 25 (4pm to 7pm), December 26 (2:30pm to 7pm), De- cember 27 (4pm to 7pm), Decem- ber 28 (4pm to 7:30pm), December 29 (3pm to 7pm), January 1 (3pm to 7pm), and January 5 (2pm to 7pm). A real-life living Bethlehem awaits in Ghajnsielem Bethlehem f'Ghajnsielem - 2024 For more information visit our facebook page or call Għajnsielem Local Council on 21561515 /bethlehem.ghajnsielem GVERN TA' MALTA PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIAT FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT MINISTRY FOR GOZO AND PLANNING