The Circolo Gozitano, in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo, organised a historical re-enactment commemorating the uprising of the Gozitan people against French occupation forces in September 1798.

The re-enactment, held last Sunday, was made possible through the participation of the Historical Group Re-enactment of Malta (HGRM), a statement said.

The event formed part of celebrations marking Jum Għawdex (Gozo Day), commemorated annually on 28 October, the anniversary of the surrender of the French garrison in Gozo in 1798.

The uprising, led by the Gozitan people under the leadership of Archpriest Saver Cassar, culminated in the surrender of French forces on 28 October 1798.

Cassar was not only the driving force behind the insurrection but also went on to lead Gozo's provisional government, the statement said.

Following the French capitulation, Gozo experienced a period of 22 months of self-government, during which the island was administered by its own citizens under Cassar's leadership.

This marked a distinctive chapter in Gozo's history, when the island effectively functioned as an autonomous political entity.

The historical re-enactment sought to bring these events to life while paying tribute to the courage, determination and unity of the Gozitan people who rose against foreign occupation and secured their island's freedom, the statement said.

Through the initiative, the Circolo Gozitano continued its efforts to raise awareness of Gozo's historical heritage and preserve the memory of an important chapter in the island's identity and collective history.