Stanley Farrugia Randon’s new book on the Dwejra Watch Tower and its surroundings will be launched at the Gozo Central Public Library, St Francis Square, Victoria, on December 17 at 10.30am.
During the event, the author will deliver a talk (in English) on the knights’ era tower, which stands alone amid the harsh, natural scenery of Gozo’s west coast.
His new book focuses on its history, which is inevitably intertwined with the history of Gozo.
In 1996, Din l-Art Ħelwa, Malta’s National Trust, took the tower under its care and the book describes the various restoration interventions carried out to date on the Scheduled Grade 1 heritage site.
The tower is closely connected to the nearby Fungus Rock, and the author includes a detailed description examining its unique ecological importance.
The book also describes the Dwejra Port, the church of St Anne, the Blue Hole, the Crocodile Rock, the Inland Sea, the valleys, fish, birds and other fauna and endemic flora found in the area.
The Dwejra area attracts historians, geologists, paleontologists, ornithologists, marine biologists, astronomers, ecologists and archaeologists. It also offers an entertaining hub to locals and tourists alike who visit the area to bathe, snorkel, dive and walk.
The author will also explain why the community should be more sensitive in protecting the area and not allowing any illegal practices that potentially damage the surrounding flora and fauna, while still enjoying the spectacular views and the natural coastal habitats.
This book is the 12th title written by Farrugia Randon, a long-standing volunteer of Din l-Art Ħelwa.
The publication is sponsored by VisitMalta.
Stanley Farrugia Randon is a medical doctor by profession, specialised in family medicine. He is author of 40 books on varied topics which include medical information, fishing, agriculture, bibliographies of various Maltese personalities, marine biodiversity, watchtowers, churches and heritage restoration. He is a member of various cultural and environmental organisations, particularly Din l-Art Ħelwa.
For more details about the event, visit Gozo Central Public Library on Facebook. Book your place by sending an e-mail to eventsgozo.library@gov.mt.
