By Anthony Reed
In the heart of Gozo’s historic capital, Victoria, Alda Bugeja is quietly weaving together the strands of an ancient craft. Her workshop, filled with vibrant handwoven textiles and the comforting sound of spinning wheels, is more than just a workspace—it’s a living museum of Gozitan heritage. For generations, Alda’s family has been dedicated to the craft of weaving,
spinning, and lace-making, sustaining a tradition that traces its roots back to the 19th century when cotton fields dotted the island.
Weaving a Family Tradition
Alda’s ancestors, like many Gozitan families, cultivated cotton and raised sheep, producing the raw materials needed for weaving. Cotton picking was a labour-intensive process, requiring
each boll to be carefully handpicked and its seeds removed. These fibres were then spun into thread, ready for weaving on handlooms. Her grandmother, Gizwarda Caruana, was a master
weaver, creating everything from blankets to lace—a skill that remains synonymous with Gozo today. “My grandmother taught me that weaving isn’t just about creating fabric,” Alda reflects. “It’s about preserving our family’s story, one thread at a time.”
A Proud Legacy: Supplying the British Military
During British rule, Gozo’s high-quality cotton was in demand for military uniforms, providing families like the Bugejas with a reliable source of income. The British recognised the durability and craftsmanship of Gozitan fabrics, which Alda’s family proudly produced for decades. But as industrialisation brought cheaper, machine-made fabrics to Europe, the demand for handwoven textiles diminished. Despite these changes, the Bugeja family remained dedicated to their craft, clinging to the traditions that had sustained them for generations.
A Royal Visit to Sannat’s Lace-Makers
In 1951, Gozo’s artisanal heritage received a royal endorsement when Princess Elizabeth, soon to become Queen Elizabeth II, visited the island with the Duke of Edinburgh. During her visit, she stopped in the village of Sannat, where local lace-makers demonstrated their skills. The princess visited the home of Ġuseppa Debrincat, a well-known lace merchant, and was
captivated by the intricate designs crafted by Gozitan hands. The princess was presented with a piece of lace as a gift, and today, a plaque in Sannat commemorates this royal visit. “Knowing that our work was appreciated by royalty is deeply meaningful,” says Alda. “It’s a reminder of the
value of what we do here.” The European Artistic Craft Days: Showcasing Gozo’s Craftsmanship Alda’s dedication to preserving Gozo’s heritage was recognised when she was invited to
participate in the European Artistic Craft Days (EACD), an international event dedicated to traditional crafts. As part of EACD, artisans across Europe open their workshops to the public,
offering demonstrations and hands-on sessions. In 2023, Alda was one of the many Maltese artisans who participated, inviting visitors into her studio to experience the art of weaving and
lace-making. “It’s wonderful to see people from different backgrounds and generations come together to learn these skills,” Alda shares. “The EACD is not only about showcasing our work but also about fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft.” By taking part in EACD, Alda is helping to put Gozo on the map as a centre for craftsmanship, ensuring that the island’s artisanal traditions continue to thrive in a modern context.). Cultural Exchange: Welcoming Ying and Chen Alda’s commitment to cultural preservation extends beyond Gozo, as seen in her recent participation in a cultural exchange programme with two students from China, Ying and Chen. One of the students is pursuing a degree in textiles, while the other focuses on ceramics. They travelled to Gozo to learn about the island’s artisanal traditions, immersing themselves in Alda’s
workshop to explore the process of spinning, weaving, and lace-making. For Alda, sharing these skills with Ying and Chen was a meaningful experience. “It’s amazing to
see young people from across the world interested in our heritage,” she says. “Watching them learn and adapt these techniques to their own studies is very fulfilling.” The exchange allowed both students to experience hands-on learning and gain a deeper understanding of Gozo’s rich cultural landscape. This exchange is part of Alda’s broader effort to ensure that the island’s weaving and lace-making traditions reach new audiences, fostering international connections that bring fresh perspectives to an ancient craft. Passing Down the Craft: Workshops and School Outreach Alda believes that the future of Gozo’s weaving heritage lies in educating younger generations.
She regularly hosts workshops at her studio, where she teaches visitors and locals alike the fundamentals of weaving and lace-making. Additionally, Alda collaborates with local schools to
introduce students to the craft, demonstrating the spinning of wool and the weaving of fabric on traditional looms. “It’s important for children to understand that there’s value in creating
something by hand,” she explains. “Weaving teaches patience, focus, and respect for the materials.”
These school visits have become an integral part of her mission. By reaching out to children and young people, Alda ensures that Gozo’s weaving traditions are not forgotten. Through these workshops, students gain an appreciation for the history of their island and the skills that sustained their ancestors. “When you see a child’s face light up as they watch a piece of fabric take shape, you know that the craft will continue,” Alda says.
Weaving as Therapy: The Meditative Nature of the Craft
Beyond its cultural significance, weaving is known for its therapeutic qualities. The repetitive motions of the loom, the steady rhythm of the spinning wheel, and the tactile engagement with natural fibres create a meditative experience. Alda has found that the process of weaving can relieve stress and improve mental clarity. “There’s something incredibly calming about weaving,” she notes. “It’s a chance to disconnect from the world and focus entirely on the thread in front of you. I’ve seen people leave my workshops with a renewed sense of peace.”
Studies on the therapeutic benefits of weaving support Alda’s observations. The act of creating something with one’s hands has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which is why Alda incorporates these elements into her workshops. Participants not only learn a new skill but also experience the mental health benefits that come from engaging with a craft rooted in mindfulness. “For me, weaving is as much about wellness as it is about heritage,” she says.
Crafting for the Pope: A Testament to Gozitan Skill
In 2022, Alda was honoured with a request to weave a stole for Pope Francis during his visit to Gozo. This commission was a profound moment for her, reflecting the respect that Gozo’s
weaving tradition commands on the global stage. “Creating something for the Pope was a deeply humbling experience,” she shares. “It reaffirmed the importance of what we do and
reminded me that these skills are a gift worth sharing with the world.”
A Vision for the Future: Sustainability and Tradition
As the world moves towards sustainable, locally-sourced goods, Alda sees a bright future for Gozo’s weaving industry. She has introduced workshops on recycling textiles, showing how
traditional techniques can be adapted to meet modern environmental needs. “Our ancestors were resourceful and made things to last,” she says. “By preserving these values, we’re not just keeping traditions alive; we’re offering people an opportunity to reconnect with the past in a way that respects the planet.” Through her work, Alda ensures that Gozo’s weaving and lace-making heritage will endure, connecting each new generation with the skills and values of the island’s past. Her workshop on
Palm Street is open year-round, welcoming visitors to experience these ancient crafts and take part in the island’s legacy. “I’m just one link in a long chain,” she says with a smile. “These skills don’t belong to me alone—they belong to Gozo.”
Contact Alda Bugeja
Address: 88, Palm Street, Victoria, Malta
Phone: 7955 2907
Email: Gozoweavingandcreations@gmail.com
Alda’s workshops offer a unique opportunity to experience the art of traditional weaving and lace-making. Through her dedication, she is preserving Gozo’s artisanal heritage and inspiring a renewed appreciation for the island’s cultural roots. Advance Booking Advised.