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ŻEBBUĠ
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 Zebbug lies stretched on a tranquil hill to the north of Gozo. Its name in Maltese means olives or olive trees, denoting an olive tree culture in the area at some point in time. Zebbug actually rises on two adjoining hills, from where one could not help but observe a splendid panorama of the Gozitan countryside and the Mediterranean. On a slope facing Gurdan Lighthouse, known as is-Saghtrija, (The Wild Thyme Field), there was a considerable deposit of onyx. The owner of the field discovered it in 1738. Many churches in Malta and Gozo have works of art sculpted out of this onyx. The village church, dedicated to Santa Marija, the Assumption, is literally covered with this semi-precious stone. The high altar, the choir, and the baptistery are all sculpted out of this onyx.
Bishop Davide Cocco-Palmeri established this parish on 28 April 1688. The building of the present church was initiated in 1690 and it was consecrated on 30 September 1726. The Cathedral apart, it is the oldest parish church consecrated in Gozo. It was conferred the Archipresbyteral status on 12 March 1963. Worthy of special mention is the altarpiece of the Immaculate Conception in a chapel in the left transept, known by the people as tal-Virtut, of the miracles. Local folklore has it, that the radiant face of the Virgin turns yellowish and pale before an impending natural catastrophe. It is also said that one day, when some corsairs dared to devastate the countryside as far as the village, a lady that resembled the image in the altarpiece appeared on the spot hurling stones to repel the foe.
 Iz-Zebbugin are known for the high quality of their bizzilla (lace); nsig (weaving); and kutri tas-suf (sheep's wool blankets). The surrounding countryside is ideal for shepherds, whose sheep probably produce Gozo's finest gbejniet (cheeslets). Zebbug is indeed a living example of cottage industry. The villagers are very proud of their religious heritage, as judged for example, from the priority given to the maintenance of street niches. The best is that of il-Madonna Omm tal-Hniena, better known as tac-Cicri.
The bays of Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Xwejni adorn this picturesque village. These bays, apart from sheltering local fishing vessels, are excellent swimming and diving zones, popular amongst locals and tourists alike.
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USEFUL INFORMATION
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How to go: From Victoria Bus Terminus, bus no. 91 or no. 90 (via Ghasri)
Interesting Features:
1. Parish Church dedicated to the Assumption of our Lady, which is most famous for its local Onyx clad interior
2. Views from Ghajn Mhelel heights
3. Traditional Salt Pans off Xwejni Bay
4. Road connection to Xwejni, Qbajjar and Marsalforn Bays
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