Churches in Malta: From Ancient Chapels to Majestic Cathedrals

Churches in Malta span various architectural styles from Renaissance and Baroque to Neoclassical.

The limestone churches rise against blue skies, their golden-coloured structures glowing in the sunshine. Inside, marble floors, decorated altars, and masterpiece paintings tell stories of faith, knights, and miraculous events. Here’s our detailed guide to the 15 most impressive churches in Malta that every Indian visitor should consider exploring.

1. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta

St. John’s Co-Cathedral stands as the most opulent of all Catholic churches in Malta. Built between 1572 and 1577 by the Knights of St. John, this church appears deceptively plain from outside but contains one of Europe’s most lavishly decorated interiors.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 8 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,200-1,500)

• Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Saturday: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM; Closed Sundays and public holidays except for religious services

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:30 AM; Saturdays: 9:30 AM; Sundays: 9:00 AM (primarily for worshippers)

• Contact Number: +356 2122 0536

• Website:stjohnscocathedral.com

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Caravaggio’s masterpiece “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,” ornate marble tombstones of Knights, gilded interior with elaborate Baroque decorations, museum with Flemish tapestries.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Arrive early (before 10 AM) to avoid cruise ship crowds. Photography is allowed without flash. The entrance fee of €15 includes an audio guide. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered – they strictly enforce this rule.

Suggested Read: Guide on Malta Visa for Indians

2. Mosta Rotunda (Rotunda of Mosta / Church of the Assumption), Mosta

The Mosta Rotunda features one of the world’s largest unsupported domes and survived a remarkable WWII miracle when a German bomb crashed through the roof during a service but failed to explode.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:Rotunda Square, Mosta MST 2014, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 12 km (30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,800-2,000)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 6:15 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:15 AM

• Contact Number: +3 562 741 8368

• Website:mostachurch.com

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Third-largest unsupported dome in Europe, WWII bomb miracle display, neoclassical design, beautiful marble floors.

• Tips for Indian visitors: For Rs. 2 (€0.02), you can light up parts of the church to see details better. The dome climb offers panoramic views of central Malta for an additional fee. Avoid visiting during Mass times unless you plan to participate.

3. St. Paul’s Cathedral (Mdina Cathedral), Mdina

St. Paul’s Cathedral dominates the skyline of Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina. This magnificent Baroque cathedral replaced an earlier Norman structure destroyed by the 1693 Sicily earthquake. When exploring historic churches in Malta, St. Paul’s Cathedral provides insight into the island’s early Christian history.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:2 Triq San Pawl, L-Imdina MDN 1061, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 13 km (30-35 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 2,000-2,200)

• Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Saturday: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM; Sunday: 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM (closed during services)

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:00 AM; Saturdays: 7:00 AM; Sundays: 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM

• Contact Number: +356 2145 6620

• Website:metropolitanchapter.com

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Beautiful Baroque architecture, exquisite marble tombstones, adjacent Cathedral Museum with religious art collection, site where St. Paul reportedly converted Roman governor Publius.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Combine your visit with exploring the medieval walled city of Mdina. A joint ticket for the cathedral and museum offers better value at €10. The cathedral closes during religious ceremonies, so check ahead.

4. Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Valletta

Source: wikimedia

The distinctive oval dome of this basilica dominates Valletta’s skyline. Rebuilt after WWII bombing damage, the current structure dates to 1981 but maintains its Baroque character.

Among worship places for Christians in Malta, this basilica holds special significance for Carmelite devotees.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:Triq it-Teatru l-Antik, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1449, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 8 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,200-1,500)

• Timings: Daily: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 6:00 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2123 5167

• Website:Madonna-tal-Karmnu/Valletta

• Email: No official email listed, contact through website form

• Highlights: Striking oval dome visible throughout Valletta, beautiful marble interior, statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, impressive acoustics.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Take stunning photos of the dome from various vantage points around Valletta. Visit during early morning for peaceful reflection when cruise tourists haven’t yet arrived.

Suggested Read: Malta Visa Photo Requirements For Indian Tourists

5. St. Catherine of Italy Church, Valletta

Source: wikimedia

This Renaissance church dates to 1576 and was built for the Italian Knights of the Order of St. John, showcasing beautiful 16th-century architecture. The church contains several important Renaissance artworks.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGW6+GC2, Victory, Valletta, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 8 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,200-1,500)

• Timings: Usually open mornings and during services

• Mass Timings: Check locally for current schedule

• Contact Number: +356 2122 3348

• Website:chiesasantacaterinaditalia.org

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Renaissance-Baroque architecture, Italian Knights’ heritage, painting of St. Catherine’s martyrdom by Mattia Preti.

• Tips for Indian visitors: This church is less visited than others in Valletta, making it perfect for quiet reflection. Opening hours can be irregular, so check locally.

6. Parish Church of St. Lawrence, Birgu (Vittoriosa)

Source: wikimedia

St. Lawrence Church in Birgu dates to the 1500s and was one of the first buildings constructed by the Knights of St. John after arriving in Malta. When exploring historic churches in Malta, St. Lawrence offers important connections to the Knights’ early presence.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGPC+WHC, Triq San Lawrenz, Birgu, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 6 km (15-20 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,000-1,200)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:30 AM; Weekends: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM

• Contact Number: +356 2182 0125

• Website: N/A

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Baroque façade, impressive marble interior, paintings by Mattia Preti, silver monstrance used during the Great Siege of 1565.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Combine with a visit to the Inquisitor’s Palace and Maritime Museum, both nearby in Birgu. The Three Cities ferry from Valletta offers scenic views and easy access to Birgu. Local guides can provide fascinating historical context.

7. Cathedral of the Assumption (Gozo Cathedral), Victoria, Gozo

This impressive Baroque cathedral dominates Gozo’s Citadel and serves as the mother church for Malta’s sister island of Gozo. Among Catholic churches in Malta, Gozo Cathedral features a fascinating optical illusion—its dome appears three-dimensional but is actually a flat ceiling painting.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:It-Telgħa tal-Belt, Ir-Rabat Għawdex, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 40 km (90 minutes by car and ferry, costing approximately Rs. 3,000-3,500)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 8:00 AM; Saturdays: 8:00 AM; Sundays: 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM

• Contact Number: +356 2155 6144

• Website:gozocathedral.mt

• Email: [email protected]

• Highlights: Trompe l’oeil dome painting (actual dome was never built), marble altar, statue of the Assumption of Our Lady, ancient Roman mosaic remains.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Purchase a combined ticket for the cathedral, museums, and Citadel sites for best value. The annual Assumption feast on August 15th offers a chance to experience authentic Gozitan culture. Visit early morning to avoid summer heat while exploring the Citadel.

8. Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, Għarb, Gozo

This national shrine built in the early 20th century stands in magnificent isolation in the Gozitan countryside and attracts pilgrims seeking miraculous healing. Among must visit churches in Malta, Ta’ Pinu represents an important pilgrimage destination.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:Ta’ Pinu Road, 1704, Għarb GRB 1704, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 45 km (100 minutes by car and ferry, costing approximately Rs. 3,500-4,000)

• Timings: Daily: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (winter) and 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM (summer)

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 5:30 PM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 5:30 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2155 6187

• Website:tapinu.org

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Neo-Romanesque architecture, collection of ex-voto offerings from pilgrims, original 16th-century chapel preserved within, beautiful mosaics, stunning countryside location.

• Tips for Indian visitors: The walk up the Stations of the Cross on the hill opposite offers panoramic views. Early evening visits provide beautiful sunset photo opportunities.

9. Parish Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck, Valletta

Source: wikimedia

This historic church commemorates St. Paul’s fateful shipwreck on Malta in 60 CE, which brought Christianity to the islands. It houses important relics including a piece of the pillar on which St. Paul was beheaded.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGW7+XG9, St. Lucia’s Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 8 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,200-1,500)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 8:30 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM

• Contact Number: +356 2122 3348

• Website: N/A

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Baroque façade, gilded interior, relic of St. Paul’s wrist bone, part of the pillar on which St. Paul was beheaded, wooden statue of St. Paul carried in procession during the feast day.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Visit during the Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck (February 10th) to experience traditional Maltese religious celebrations. The church is centrally located in Valletta, making it easy to combine with other attractions.

Suggested Reads: How to Book Malta Visa Appointment

10. Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Sliema

Source: wikimedia

One of Malta’s main Anglican churches serving the expatriate and tourist communities since the 19th century. The church maintains a lovely garden and hosts various community events throughout the year.

• Type: Anglican (Protestant)

• Location:75 Triq Rodolfu, Tas-Sliema SLM 1273, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 10 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,500-1,800)

• Timings: Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Sunday: closed except for services

• Mass Timings: Sunday: 10:00 AM (Sung Eucharist); Friday: 10:00 AM (Said Eucharist)

• Contact Number: +356 9910 2201

• Website:holytrinitysliema.com

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: English-speaking congregation, welcoming to all denominations, community events, church garden.

• Tips for Indian visitors: This church provides a familiar worship environment for Anglican Indians. The congregation is friendly and welcoming to visitors. Check the noticeboard for upcoming events and activities. The church is within walking distance of Sliema’s promenade and shopping areas.

11. St. Publius Parish Church, Floriana

Source: wikimedia

Named after Malta’s first bishop, St. Publius (who according to tradition was converted by St. Paul after healing his father), this impressive neoclassical church dominates Floriana. This historic church in Malta features impressive Baroque architecture with distinctive twin bell towers.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:48 Triq Il-Miratur, Il-Furjana, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 7 km (20 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,100-1,300)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 6:00 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2124 7106

• Website: N/A

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Baroque architecture, twin bell towers, impressive dome, statue of St. Publius, annual feast celebrated in April.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Floriana is the first town you encounter when entering Valletta, making this church easily accessible. Visit the nearby Valletta Waterfront for dining options after your church visit. The church stands near the main bus terminal, convenient for public transport users.

12. St. George’s Basilica, Victoria, Gozo

Known locally as “The Marble Basilica” due to its lavish marble interior, this church is dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Gozo. The feast of St. George in July transforms Victoria with elaborate decorations and festivities.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:26VQ+HJM Charity Street Victoria, VCT, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 40 km (90 minutes by car and ferry, costing approximately Rs. 3,000-3,500)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 6:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 6:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 6:00 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2155 6377

• Website:stgeorge.org.mt

• Email: [email protected]

• Highlights: Ornate marble interior, paintings by Giuseppe Calì, impressive dome, statue of St. George, annual feast celebrated on the third Sunday of July.

• Tips for Indian visitors: The basilica’s central location in Victoria makes it easy to visit while exploring Gozo’s capital. The square outside offers several cafes for refreshments. Combine with a visit to the nearby Citadel for a full day in Victoria.

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13. Church of Our Lady of Victories, Valletta

Source: wikimedia

The first church built in Valletta, commemorating the victory of the Knights and Maltese over Ottoman forces in the Great Siege of 1565. This church literally marks the foundation of Valletta—its first stone was the city’s cornerstone. Its Baroque façade and historical paintings make it worth visiting despite its modest size.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGW6+97X, South St, Valletta, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 8 km (25-30 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,200-1,500)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Closed on Sundays except for services

• Mass Timings: Check locally for current schedule

• Contact Number: N/A

• Website:ourladyofvictory.org.mt

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Historical significance as Valletta’s first church, foundation stone of Valletta city, Baroque façade, paintings depicting the Great Siege

• Tips for Indian visitors: This church sits at the entrance to Valletta, making it a perfect starting point for city exploration. Recently restored, the church now displays its original beauty. Combine with a visit to nearby St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

14. Parish Church of the Immaculate Conception, Cospicua (Bormla)

Source: wikimedia

This impressive Baroque church is the parish church of Cospicua, one of Malta’s historic Three Cities. The church serves as the spiritual center of Cospicua, one of the historic Three Cities.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGJC+F7W, Triq il-Pellegrinaġġ, Bormla, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 6 km (15-20 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,000-1,200)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 6:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 6:00 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2182 8413

• Website: N/A

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Baroque architecture, ornate interior with gilded decorations, painting of the Immaculate Conception, annual feast celebrated on December 8th.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Take the ferry from Valletta to the Three Cities for a scenic approach. Combine with visits to nearby Vittoriosa and Senglea to explore all Three Cities. The dockyard area offers insights into Malta’s maritime history.

15. Parish Church of Our Lady of Safe Haven and St. Dominic, Birgu

Source: wikimedia

This church has strong connections to the Dominican Order and features beautiful Baroque architecture in the heart of historic Birgu. The interior features impressive marble work and religious paintings.

• Type: Catholic

• Location:VGX8+QF8, Valletta, Malta

• Distance from Malta International Airport: 6 km (15-20 minutes by taxi costing approximately Rs. 1,000-1,200)

• Timings: Monday to Saturday: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM; Sunday: limited hours during non-service times

• Mass Timings: Weekdays: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 6:00 PM; Weekends: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 6:00 PM

• Contact Number: +356 2182 0125

• Website:st-dominics-church/

• Email: N/A

• Highlights: Baroque façade, marble interior, statue of Our Lady of the Rosary, annual feast celebrated in early August, historical connection to the Dominican Order.

• Tips for Indian visitors: Visit during the annual feast in August to experience traditional Maltese celebrations. The church stands near the Inquisitor’s Palace, which now houses the National Museum of Ethnography. Birgu’s narrow streets offer a glimpse into medieval Malta.

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FAQs

Q: Do I need to pay entry fees for churches in Malta?

A: Major churches in Malta like St. John’s Co-Cathedral (€15/Rs. 1,350) and Mdina Cathedral (€10/Rs. 900) charge entrance fees, which typically include museums or special areas. Parish churches are generally free, though donations are appreciated.

Q: Can I attend mass as a non-Catholic?

A: Yes, visitors of any faith may attend masses at Catholic churches in Malta. Non-Catholics should not participate in Communion but are welcome to observe the service respectfully.

Q: What should I wear when visiting churches in Malta?

A: Modest attire is required—shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Avoid beachwear, shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing when visiting historic churches in Malta.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the churches?

A: Photography policies vary. Major tourist churches like St. John’s Co-Cathedral allow non-flash photography with a standard camera (professional equipment requires permits). Some smaller churches prohibit photography entirely, especially during services.

Q: Are English-language guidebooks or tours available?

A: Major famous churches in Malta offer audio guides or written information in English. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Mdina Cathedral, and Mosta Rotunda provide excellent English explanations. Some churches offer guided tours in English at specific times.

Q: How do church visiting hours work around mass times?

A: Churches in Malta with mass timings typically close to tourists during services. Major tourist churches have separate entrances and areas for visitors and worshippers. Check specific church websites or ask at tourist information centers for updated schedules.

Q: What’s the best way to experience a traditional Maltese festa?

A: Check the festa calendar (available at tourist offices or online), arrive in the village/town 2-3 days before the main celebration to see preparations, attend the evening procession on the main feast day, and join locals in the square for celebrations afterward.

Q: Are there any Orthodox or Protestant services in English?

A: Yes, Protestant churches in Malta typically conduct services in English. The Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Sliema and St. Andrew’s Scots Church in Valletta hold regular English services. Orthodox churches in Malta generally follow their traditional liturgical languages, though some provide English materials.

Q: What’s the significance of the Maltese Cross seen in many churches?

A: The eight-pointed Maltese Cross symbolizes the Knights of St. John (Knights of Malta) who ruled the islands from 1530 to 1798. The eight points represent the eight obligations of the knights, including living in truth and having faith.

Q: How accessible are churches for visitors with mobility issues?

A: Accessibility varies. Newer churches and recently renovated major sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral have ramps and facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. However, many historic churches in Malta have steps and limited accessibility. Contact churches directly before visiting to check specific arrangements.