Religious Pilgrimage in Malta (6 Days)
Tour Overview:
This religious pilgrimage tour in Malta offers a profound spiritual experience, visiting the island’s most sacred sites, including St. Paul’s Grotto and St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Over six days, immerse yourself in Malta’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions with visits to historic churches, chapels, and significant religious sites. This tailor-made spiritual retreat includes high-end accommodations in Malta, private guided tours, and a serene atmosphere perfect for prayer and reflection.
Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Malta’s Religious Heritage
Arrive in Malta and transfer to your hotel. Begin the journey with an introduction to the island’s religious significance led by your expert guide. After check-in, settle into your reserved rooms and enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Evening: Attend a traditional Catholic mass at one of Valletta’s historic churches, followed by a peaceful dinner at your hotel.
Day 2: Valletta – A City of Spiritual Heritage
Valletta, Malta’s capital, is deeply connected to Christian traditions, with a remarkable religious heritage. In addition to the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral, renowned for its artistic masterpieces and the tomb of Grand Master La Valette, the city is home to more than 25 historic churches, reflecting centuries of devotion.
Among the most significant is Our Lady of Victory Church, the first built after Valletta’s foundation, and St. Paul’s Shipwreck Church, dedicated to the Apostle Paul, who, according to tradition, was shipwrecked in Malta in 60 AD, bringing Christianity to the island.
For pilgrimage groups, private celebrations can be arranged in some of Valletta’s historic churches, providing a unique spiritual experience in one of the Mediterranean’s holiest cities. The tour may also include moments of prayer, reflection, and a deeper appreciation of religious relics and sacred artwork that tell the story of Malta’s enduring faith.
Day 3: St. Paul’s Grotto & Sacred Sites of Rabat and Mdina
Today, you will visit Rabat, a city rich in religious history. Begin with St. Paul’s Grotto, where it is believed that the Apostle Paul sought refuge after his shipwreck. Continue with visits to St. Agatha’s Catacombs and St. Paul’s Chapel, both significant Christian landmarks.
Proceed to Mdina, Malta’s ancient fortified city, where you will explore St. Paul’s Cathedral and gain deeper insights into the history of Christianity on the island. The journey continues with a visit to St. Agatha’s Monastery and the Museum of Roman Catholicism, offering a deeper understanding of faith’s influence on Maltese culture.
Evening: Enjoy a tranquil dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day’s spiritual journey.
Day 4: Gozo – A Journey of Faith & Spirituality
Today’s pilgrimage takes you to Gozo, where you will visit the Sanctuary of Ta’ Pinu, one of the most important places of worship in the Maltese archipelago. Known for its miraculous history, the sanctuary welcomes pilgrims from around the world for prayer and religious celebrations. You will have the opportunity to attend Holy Mass and walk the Rosary Trail, a peaceful pathway adorned with sculptures depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary.
After a traditional Gozitan lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues to Victoria’s Cittadella, the island’s spiritual and historical center. Here, you will visit the Cathedral of the Assumption, with its stunning baroque architecture, and St. George’s Basilica, also known as the “Golden Basilica” for its richly adorned interior.
Later in the afternoon, the pilgrimage takes you to Xagħra, where you will visit St. Paul’s Grotto, believed to have provided refuge to the Apostle Paul during his stay in Malta. This spiritually significant site offers a quiet moment for contemplation before returning to Malta.
For organized pilgrimage groups, private religious ceremonies, meetings with local faith communities, and additional moments of prayer can be arranged, enriching this spiritual experience even further.
Day 5: The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa, St. Lawrence Church & St. Paul Milqi
Today’s journey begins with a visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa, one of Malta’s most revered pilgrimage sites, where you will have time for personal prayer and reflection in this sacred and peaceful location.
The tour continues with a visit to St. Lawrence Church in Birgu, another site of great spiritual significance. For a truly unique experience off the beaten path, this pilgrimage can include an exclusive visit to St. Paul Milqi, an extraordinary historical and religious site. Located in Burmarrad, this lesser-known location is accessible only upon request, making it a privileged stop for groups seeking an intimate and authentic encounter with Malta’s religious heritage.
According to tradition, St. Paul Milqi stands on the ruins of the Roman villa where St. Paul was welcomed after his shipwreck. It was here that the Apostle converted Governor Publius, who later became the first bishop of the island. Archaeological excavations have uncovered ancient agricultural structures and the remains of a Byzantine chapel, underscoring the site’s historical and religious importance.
The visit offers pilgrims a rare moment of reflection in a place untouched by mass tourism, allowing them to reconnect with the roots of Christianity in Malta in a serene and spiritual setting.
Evening: Reflect on the day’s experiences over a peaceful dinner.
Day 6: Farewell & Departure
On your final day, transfer to the airport for your return flight. This pilgrimage will leave you with profound spiritual memories, carrying with you the essence of religious pilgrimage tours to Malta for a lifetime.
This exclusive guided tour of Malta is designed to offer a unique spiritual travel experience, blending history, devotion, and cultural exploration in a setting of deep faith and tranquility.
