Easter in Malta and Gozo

Easter in Malta and Gozo: A Journey Through Faith, Culture, and Deliciously Sweet Treats

The Easter celebrations in Malta and Gozo beautifully reflect the deep-rooted Catholic heritage of the Maltese Archipelago, and it truly is one of my favourite times of the year to visit.

Holy Week, which begins with the uplifting Palm Sunday and reaches its joyful peak on Easter Sunday, is a time filled with heartfelt devotion and reflection.

In Malta, the Good Friday processions offer a touching demonstration of faith. Towns such as Żebbuġ and Mosta come alive with solemn parades that showcase life-sized statues depicting the Passion of Christ. Locals donning biblical attire join in the festivities, fostering an atmosphere of reverence and community spirit.

Today, the Catholic Church warmly observes Maundy Thursday, also known as Thursday of the Gathering (Ħamis ix-Xirka in Maltese). This special day commemorates the evening when Jesus shared the Last Supper with his disciples, a moment that included the profound act of Jesus washing the feet of the apostles (Jn 13: 5-10).

In the Catholic calendar, this day marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum, leading us through Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and culminating in the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday (L-Għid il-Kbir). This is the most significant feast for Christians, celebrating Christ’s glorious victory over death. Above all, it is the day when Jesus established the Holy Eucharist (Mk 14: 22-24).

Visits to Seven Churches

On Maundy Thursday evening and Good Friday morning, Christians partake in a beautiful pilgrimage, visiting seven churches in pairs or small groups, or even larger gatherings. During this journey, they engage in prayer, often reciting the rosary as they go.

Some choose to conduct their visits within a single church, while others explore different churches across various localities.

At each church, pilgrims take a moment to kneel before the Holy Eucharist, praying and reflecting on the passion of Christ. They contemplate the seven final ‘stations’ that Jesus traversed from his arrest on Holy Thursday to his crucifixion on Good Friday, all while adoring Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

Origins of the Tradition

The beautiful tradition of visiting seven churches is believed to have originated with St. Philip Neri in the 16th century, who began guiding the faithful on visits to each of the seven basilicas in Rome.

This practice was inspired by the desire to accompany and watch over Jesus as he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane before his passion and death. The road in Rome that connects ‘San Paolo fuor le Mura’ and ‘San Sebastiano’, also ‘fuor le Mura’, is still affectionately referred to as ‘Via delle Sette Chiese’ (Seven Churches Street).

Over time, these visits gained popularity and evolved into what is now known as ‘the Seven Churches Visitation’ (Il-viżti ta’ Ħamis ix-Xirka).

Today, this heartfelt devotion is cherished by faithful around the globe, with a particularly fervent embrace among the Maltese community.

Gozo, Malta’s tranquil sister island, carries its own unique Easter charm.

The most sought after event of Holy Week is the Good Friday processions which are deeply touching. The most popular processions take place in Xaghra, Nadur, Xewkija and Victoria.

The main attraction are seven life-size tableaux representing the principal moments of the passion and death of Jesus: Christ at Gethsemane; The Scourging at the Pillar; The Crowning with Thorns; The Fall with the Cross; The Crucifixion; The Procession to the Tomb; and Our Lady of Sorrows. The statues are papier mache` models, most of them richly dressed in velvet clothes.

For generations, St. George's Parish in Victoria has lovingly preserved the traditional Maltese format of the Good Friday procession. This heartfelt event features the participation of 'Fratellanza,' which means brotherhood, as chain bearers follow the beautifully adorned statues. These chain bearers, often men cloaked in hoods, walk barefoot, dragging chains attached to their heels as a meaningful act of penance or in fulfillment of a vow they have made. At the end of the procession, the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows is carried, surrounded by a devoted crowd of followers who walk with reverence.

Victoria, the island’s capital, serves as its spiritual heart, where the warm glow of candlelight fills the churches, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.

For a truly special experience, I can't recommend enough a visit to Għammar Hill.

This peaceful path, with 14 stunning marble statues marking the Stations of the Cross, offers a moment of reflection and stunning panoramic views. The pilgrimage here is often a highlight for those seeking a deeper connection to the season. It's not just a beautiful walk at Easter time, but all year around and there is a magical surprise when you reach the top.

Easter Sunday brings an air of joy to both islands, as church bells ring out, families gather for Mass, and processions take on a festive, celebratory tone.

Navigating Shopping Hours and Public Holidays

If you’re planning your Easter visit to Malta or Gozo, it’s helpful to be aware of local traditions. Good Friday is a public holiday, and most shops, including supermarkets, close to honour the day. Easter Sunday also has reduced shopping hours, especially in Gozo, so it’s wise to plan ahead. In Malta, popular tourist areas like Valletta and Sliema may have some shops open for limited hours.

Sweet Treats to Warm the Soul

Easter in Malta and Gozo is not just about spiritual traditions—it’s also a time to indulge in the islands’ delicious cherished delicacies.

The iconic figolla is a delightful treat you’ll find everywhere, a sweet pastry filled with almond paste and shaped into symbols of Easter such as bunnies, easter eggs or butterflies.

On both islands, kwareżimal is a special treat during Lent—a subtly sweet, spiced almond biscuit made with honey and orange blossom.

These culinary traditions are lovingly passed down through generations and are sure to make your Easter holiday extra memorable.

Why Choose Malta and Gozo for Easter?

Easter in Malta and Gozo is a beautiful celebration of faith, family, and community.

The warm spring weather, breath-taking green landscapes, delightful wild flowers, and deep sense of tradition create the perfect setting for this sacred season.

From the solemn beauty of Good Friday to the jubilant celebrations of Easter Sunday, every moment is infused with meaning and joy. Whether it’s the spiritual journey up Għammar Hill, the soothing sounds of church bells, or the simple pleasure of a figolla with your cuppa, you’ll feel a deep connection to these enchanting islands.

So, if you’re planning your holidays in Malta, don’t forget to include Gozo in your itinerary. Together, these islands offer an Easter experience that is not only spiritually uplifting but also deeply heart-warming.

It’s a time to reflect, rejoice, and create memories that will stay with you forever.