Exploring Churches of Malta and Gozo 

Churches in Malta and Gozo Represent a Large Part of the Island’s Culture and Heritage

Malta is a beautiful island nation with a rich history and tradition. The country is known for its Christian legacy, which dates back to the Knights of St. John’s founding. Malta boasts various churches and cathedrals with unique architecture and art. These magnificent religious structures are worthy of a visit not only for their religious purposes but also for their historical significance and beautiful architecture.

1. Church of the Assumption, or Mosta Rotunda

This circular Church, known locally as “Rotunda”, is the one that starts this article due to its impressive design and history. This remarkable dome, located in the heart of Mosta, a town in the centre of the island, is one of the most visited by tourists and locals.

The building was built in the mid-19th century in Rome’s neoclassical style of the Pantheon. Its great dome has a diameter of 40 m, which is very similar to other famous temples, such as St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican or Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.

Turning to the historical part, mentioning the miracle story in this Church in 1942 is necessary. During the German siege, a bomber dropped a bomb weighing more than 500 kg straight into the dome, passing through it and falling to the floor of the Church while more than 300 parishioners were attending mass. Luckily, or by divine miracle, the bomb failed to explode, and the massacre was averted.

So, as fate would have it, this beautiful building was not destroyed, so take the opportunity to visit it. A bunker at the door was also used as a shelter during the war. It is well worth a visit to see the population’s living conditions during such a catastrophe.

2. St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta

St John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most magnificent churches in Malta, located in the heart of Valletta. Don’t be fooled by the austere façade that decorates the cathedral from the outside; inside, it is one of the most impressive baroque temples in the world. The Church is famous for its stunning baroque architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful works of art.

The cathedral’s history dates back to the victory of the Knights of the Order of St. John in the defence of Malta in 1565. The funds raised were used to build Valletta and a cathedral dedicated to St John the Baptist. In the marble slabs on the floor of the central nave are buried 400 knights of the order. Among them is the name of Jean Parisot de la Vallette, founder of the Maltese capital.

You will indeed be fascinated by the columns and arches finished in pure 24-carat gold.

And if you are a fan of art and painting, take the opportunity to contemplate the two paintings on display by the controversial and famous Italian painter Caravaggio. The Decapitation of St. John is his largest and most important work, presiding over a large room attached to the cathedral. In addition, you can see St. Jerome’s work.

3. St Paul Cathedral – Mdina

The visible head of the Silent City and former capital of the Maltese archipelago, the majestic St Paul’s Cathedral is a candidate for a place among the country’s most beautiful places of worship.  The defensive cannons on the door and a splendid baroque façade welcome us to this temple built in the 17th century. The interior is full of reddish, maroon, and white marble, contrasting perfectly with the biblical paintings that decorate the ceilings. Elegant statues and beautiful stained glass windows accompany this.

Tradition says that the Church was erected on the site where the apostle St. Paul, the person responsible for making Malta the first Christian nation in the West, once resided.

If you have not considered visiting it, the entrance to St. Paul’s Cathedral will give you access to the Cathedral Museum, annexed to the Church. Here, you will discover an extensive collection of objects collected by the Church, from silver sculptures to ancient coins and engravings by Albrecht Dürer, the most famous artist of the German Renaissance.

4. Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, Mellieha

From the highest point of the island of Malta, the Church of Our Lady in the town of Mellieha emerges as sovereign. This beautiful 19th-century building at the end of a long central square is on this list for its beauty and strategic location. Walking around it, you can admire the entire expanse of Ghadira Bay and the Red Tower. On the horizon, the coasts of the other islands emerge Comino and Gozo, respectively.

The interior is elegant and spacious, with mosaic floors, high ceilings and beautiful domes. The predominant colour is white (symbolising purity) with gold accents.

In addition, on the south side of the Church, you can find the Sanctuary of Our Lady. It was a refuge for local citizens from centuries of neglect and the constant threat of Corsair attacks. Saint Luke himself is said to have painted its fresco of the Virgin. Its decoration is a sight to behold and is filled with historical and religious artefacts.

5. Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, Gozo

In the northernmost part of Malta’s sister island, Gozo, we find this beautiful jewel of religious worship: the Basilica of Ta Pinu. On entering the Church, the first thing that catches the eye is its large square, with its various statues and colourful frescoes and murals.

The history of this Church tells us that it was initially composed of a simple chapel in the 16th century or even earlier. Due to its neglect and poor condition, the apostolic visitor Pietro Duzina, sent by Pope Gregory XIII, ordered it to be demolished. However, a curious event changed the fate of the place: the worker who struck the first blow for its demolition broke his arm. This was taken as a message that the chapel should be preserved for future generations.

With the passing of the years and the different religious personnel, the place was reformed until it became the basilica we can see today. Inside the basilica, the original chapel behind the altar and the famous Virgin of the Assumption painting stands out.

The Basilica of Ta Pinu has been the subject of several miraculous stories, which is why images of people, offerings, and petitions can be seen inside it.

Among them is the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Karmni Grima in 1883. The Virgin called out to her by repeating the word “Elija” (Maltese for “come”). In her honour, the word Elija can be seen in the mosaic of the Virgin and Child Jesus that decorates the main door of the basilica.

6. Xewkija Rotunda Church, Gozo

Xewkija Rotunda Church is a beautiful church located in the village of Xewkija on the island of Gozo. The church is also known as the Church of St. John the Baptist and is one of the largest churches in Gozo.

The church’s construction began in 1951 and took 20 years to complete. Its design was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and was built using local limestone. The church’s dome is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, with a diameter of 27 meters and a height of 75 meters.

Inside the church, visitors can admire the beautiful marble floors, intricate carvings, and stunning artworks. The church has several chapels, including the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows and the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament.

The Xewkija Rotunda Church is also home to a magnificent organ, built in 1973 and one of the largest in Malta and Gozo. The organ has 3,850 pipes and is played during religious ceremonies and special events.  Overall, the Xewkija Rotunda Church is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Gozo. The church’s impressive architecture and rich history make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

7. St. George’s Basilica, Victoria

St. George’s Basilica is a stunning baroque-style church located in the heart of Victoria, Gozo’s capital city. The church was built between 1672 and 1678 and is dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Gozo. The church’s interior is adorned with beautiful decorations, including intricate carvings, frescoes, and gold leaf. Visitors can also admire the beautiful marble floors, statues, and stained glass windows. St. George’s Basilica is home to several works of art, including a painting of the martyrdom of St. George by the Italian artist Mattia Preti. The church also has a museum that displays a collection of liturgical items, vestments, and paintings.

8. Cathedral of the Assumption in Citadella, Gozo

The Cathedral of the Assumption, located in the historic Citadella in Victoria, Gozo, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The cathedral was built in the 17th century, and its façade is adorned with beautiful sculptures and intricate carvings. The highlight of the cathedral is undoubtedly the stunning interior, featuring ornate decorations, elaborate frescoes, and beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can also admire the impressive marble altar and the impressive organ, which is one of the largest on the island. The cathedral is also home to an impressive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and religious artefacts. One of the most notable pieces is a beautiful marble statue of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which is located in the cathedral’s apse.

Plan your Trip to Gozo with BELS English Schools

If you’re planning a trip to Gozo and want to make the most of your visit, learning English can be a great way to enhance your experience.

BELS Gozo is a language school that offers a variety of English courses to help you improve your English skills. From General English to Business English and Exam Preparation courses, our experienced teachers and modern facilities provide a supportive and engaging learning environment.

While at BELS Gozo, you can not only improve your language skills but also enjoy the beauty and culture of the island and meet new people from around the world.

Email us at [email protected] to plan your trip and book directly.