January, 21 2025 ( Updated January, 23 2025)
Celebrate Malta’s Faith and Spirit at the Iconic Feast of St. Paul!
Every year on February 10, Malta celebrates the Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck. This cherished holiday honours the arrival of St. Paul in Malta in 60 A.D., a turning point in the island’s Christian history. In the heart of Valletta, the Parish Church of Saint Paul Shipwrecked serves as the focal point of the festivities. This historic church is dedicated to commemorating the Apostle Paul, who was famed for his healing abilities, including curing the father of St. Publius from dysentery.
The Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck is one of Malta's most anticipated events filled with heartfelt devotion, colourful parades, and joyous community gatherings
St. Paul’s arrival in Malta wasn’t planned—it was the result of a shipwreck during his journey to Rome. According to Christian tradition, St. Paul sought sanctuary in a cave after the accident, where he was bitten by a snake but remained miraculously unharmed.
During his three-month stay, St. Paul is said to have founded a Christian community on the island leaving a profound spiritual legacy. Archaeological evidence supports parts of these stories, adding to the historical significance of the event.
The Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck reflects Malta’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and gratitude to St. Paul as the island’s protector.
1. The Feast in Valletta
The Parish Church of Saint Paul Shipwrecked on West Street is one of Malta’s oldest churches, built in 1570. It becomes the epicentre of grand celebrations, featuring vibrant church services, lively street parties, and solemn processions with a revered statue of St. Paul.
2. Grand Harbor Fireworks
The annual fireworks display over Grand Harbor is a spectacular highlight. People gather here to witness the dazzling lights while reflecting on the belief that St. Paul lived in Malta and converted locals to Christianity.
3. Religious Gatherings and Solemn Mass
The feast features brass bands, costumed spectators, and jubilant parades. The day concludes with a Solemn Mass held in honour of the Church of St. Paul’s Shipwreck. The celebration is filled with clapping, cheers, and heartfelt prayers from the Maltese community.
Decorations outside Parish Church of Saint Paul Shipwrecked in Malta.
Malta, a stunning archipelago in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its rich history, azure waters, and warm hospitality. With a heritage dating back to ancient times, the island reflects a vibrant blend of cultures influenced by the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and the Knights of St. John. Valletta, the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its Baroque architecture, narrow streets, and iconic landmarks. Must-visit attractions include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with its gilded interiors and masterpieces by Caravaggio; the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering breathtaking views of the Grand Harbor; and the Grandmaster’s Palace, showcasing the legacy of the Knights of Malta. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along Republic Street, filled with shops and dining options, take a scenic harbour cruise, or explore the National Museum of Archaeology to explore Malta’s fascinating past.
Name: Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck
Date: February 10, 2025
Location: Valletta, Malta
Official Website: National Today
Celebrate this historic feast and experience the vibrant spirit of Malta.
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