This photograph captures three well-known characters from il-Belt Victoria gathered in Savina Square, dating from the mid-20th century. The image was taken by Ċensu Cordina, a painter from il-Belt Victoria who had a particular interest in portraying local personalities. As an artist, he often seized everyday moments such as this to photograph distinctive village characters, sometimes using them later as inspiration for his work.

From left to right, the men are identified as Peppu iċ-Ċillogru, Ġużepp Gatt “il-Farru”, and Toni Spiteri, known as “tal-Baqri”. These traditional nicknames, so characteristic of Gozitan communities, were often more widely recognised than surnames and formed an essential part of local identity.

The three men appear to be waiting outside the Church of Our Lady of Savina before entering to attend Mass, offering a simple yet meaningful glimpse into daily social life in Gozo during that era. The cars visible in the background suggest a period likely between the late 1950s and the 1970s.

The photograph was personally given by Ċensu Cordina to John Meilaq during his childhood, and John was kind enough to share it with us. It remains a beautiful and authentic snapshot of community life in il-Belt Victoria, when familiar faces and colourful characters shaped the atmosphere of Savina Square.

This image has been digitally enhanced using artificial intelligence to improve clarity and preserve detail, while maintaining the authenticity and character of the original photograph.