The University of Malta Gozo Campus has just issued the 36th edition of The Gozo Observer. This publication is once again presenting a number of interesting articles relating to Gozo.
In his editorial, Professor Lino Briguglio gives a brief introduction to The Gozo Observer whilst he also outlines the articles published in this issue.
Sandra Portelli’s article entitled, ‘Women: Pregnancy and Childbirth in Gozo 1867-1914’, focuses on the role of Gozitan women, the trials and tribulations, procedures and superstitions relating to pregnancy and childbirth during these times. Godwin Vella concludes his fascinating, three-part article entitled, ‘A Description of Gozo at the Turn of the Eighteenth Century’, with Caxaro’s description of Gozo (1704). This article is full of detailed information for those interested in the history of Gozo.
‘Ġorġ Gauci: The Talented Craftsman and Carpenter from Gozo’, written by Fr Geoffrey Attard, recounts the life of the highly talented Ġorġ Gauci and his many contributions towards the embellishment of St George’s Basilica in Rabat, Gozo. Dr Joe Zammit Ciantar in his article, ‘The Civil Defence in Detroit (Mi.) USA and Gozitan William Pace’, writes about a Gozitan emigrant who left his place of birth to go and seek his fortune in the then booming car manufacturing industry in Detroit, Michigan. The article was inspired by documents found by the author, mainly those relating to Pace’s volunteer services in the Civil Defence. Through his intensive research, Zammit Ciantar traced information about this Gozitan and his family, which would otherwise have remained buried in archives and family collections.
Another historical article is presented by Daniel Meilak who describes the zealous life and tireless work of one of Nadur’s parish priests – Don Giovanni Andrea Falson. ‘Wrapping up a Zealous Life – The discovery of an 18th century parish priest’s will’, gives details about this prudent pastor in charge of a growing parish and how he generously dispensed of his possessions for the benefit of his parish and other deserving persons.
In this issue one may also find a review of a recent publication entitled ‘Spirituality, Devotions & Traditions of the Augustinian Friars in Gozo’. Fr Geoffrey George Attard observes how Fr Peter Paul Cachia’s book may be considered as the ideal source-book for all those who want to acquire more information about the Augustinian presence in Gozo.
Apart from the regular account of courses, events and other activities held at the Gozo Campus by Joseph Calleja, the Gozo Campus Administrator, this issue also includes an index of the articles published in The Gozo Observer from the 25th edition to date. The list of articles that appeared in previous editions may be found on the University of Malta website.
The Gozo Observer can be viewed at www.um.edu.mt/ugc/publications and requests for hard copies can be sent to:
The University of Malta - Gozo Campus
Mgarr Road,
Xewkija, Gozo.
Tel: +356 2156 4559, +356 2340 7900
