Religious site
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa
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Perched on a hill overlooking Mellieħa Bay, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa is one of Malta's oldest and most venerated Marian shrines. The sanctuary's main attraction is a Byzantine-style fresco of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by Saint Luke and brought to Malta by Saint Paul. Pilgrims climb the grand staircase to the church, which offers sweeping views of the coast. Inside, the ornate interior and the grotto-like chapel create a deeply spiritual atmosphere, drawing visitors for both devotion and history.
Don't miss
- View the ancient Byzantine fresco of the Virgin Mary, a rare icon.
- Climb the monumental staircase for panoramic views of Mellieħa Bay.
- Explore the grotto chapel and the sanctuary's museum of religious artifacts.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inMysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta4.8★ · 283 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Most bookedMdina and Rabat Walking Tour inc. Catacombs and St. Paul's Grotto4.9★ · 471 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleHalf Day Private Tour Around Malta4.8★ · 95 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$273 per personSee dates →More attractions in Qawra