Żejtun is a thriving city located in the South Eastern Region of Malta, with a population of 11,218. The city, formerly known as Città Beland, was awarded by the Grandmaster of the Order of the Knights of Malta, Ferdinand von Hompesch zu Bolheim, in 1797. It has a rich historical past. Prior to this honour, the community was lovingly known as Casale Santa Caterina, after its patron saint and parish titular.

Bisqallin and Ħal Bisbut, the historic urban centres of Żejtun, proudly maintain its tiny mediaeval alleyways and ancient borders, providing as living testaments to its long past. Since the 19th century, Żejtun, also known as Casale Zeitoun, has been used to refer to the settlement centred on these two settlements. The Żejtun Local Council oversees the vibrant city of Żejtun and its surrounding minor hamlets. Żejtun experienced significant urbanisation in the 1970s and 1980s due to infrastructure and urban projects aimed at alleviating housing pressures in the neighbouring Three Cities area. This resulted in a significant increase in the town’s population.

The name is derived from the Sicilian Arabic phrase for olive, zaytun, and honours one of Malta’s traditional agronomic businesses. The Sicilian Arabic name zaytun refers to the olive tree’s fruit, while the tree itself is called zabbūğ or zanbūğ. The Arabic origin of the town’s name was confirmed by the first Maltese language dictionary, which defined Żejtun as a prosperous town in the eastern portion of Malta, comprising Bisqallin and the settlement of Bisbut.

Nowadays, Żejtun is a major hub on the Maltese archipelago, making significant contributions to the islands’ history, culture and economy. Bulebel, one of the country’s largest industrial parks, is located on the city’s outskirts. Żejtun has various historical sites, including St. Catherine’s Parish Church, St Catherine’s Old Church, votive chapels, and vestiges of a Roman villa. The parish of Żejtun is one of the oldest on the islands, with documents reaching back to 1436. The old parish church, erected in the 12th century and renovated in 1492, is still a significant religious and historical site.

Żejtun has been inhabited from prehistoric times and is strategically positioned between three ancient harbours: Marsa to the north, Marsaxlokk and Marsascala to the south. Remains from the Late Neolithic era, found near the megaliths of Ħal Ġinwi and the Tas-Silġ temple, demonstrate the area’s ancient history. Excavations on the southern side of Żejtun revealed the remains of an old Roman villa with authentic tiling and coloured stucco, shedding light on the region’s booming olive oil business.

The Feast of Żejtun, held yearly in honour of St Catherine, is a cherished event that reflects the town’s strong faith and communal spirit. The feast, held around the third Sunday in June, captivates both residents and visitors with its colourful processions, energetic band marches, and stunning fireworks displays. Żejtun’s streets are decked with sculptures, banners, and floats honouring the town’s patron saint. Festive gatherings, traditional music, and tasty local foods enhance to the joyful mood, providing a unique experience for everyone who participate in this centuries-old celebration of religion, togetherness, and cultural heritage.