Sanctuary of Our Lady

Visit the Sanctuary of our Lady and enjoy spectacular views over Mellieha bay, Gozo and Comino

The Sanctuary of our Lady is located at the edge of a hill, in the heart of Mellieha. Built in the late 19th century, this church is popular both for pilgrimages and for the magnificent views it offers over Mellieha bay, Gozo and Comino. 

The older part of the sanctuary still stands today, dating back to the late 16th century. Since then, the chapel's was enlarged several times. The building on top is the Parish Priest's residence. The door on the left leads to the sacristy, which holds a remarkable collection of gifts and pledges showing the devotion of the locals towards Our Lady.
The monumental arch was built in 1719, to honour the blessing of rain after an extended time of drought. The inscription states “In thee have fathers hoped; they hoped and thou hast delivered them”.

The crypt was one of the natural caves found in the northern part of Malta. According to tradition, the Byzantine style fresco showing the Virgin Mary holding Christ was painted by St. Luke, when he was shipwrecked on the Island together with St. Paul.