Every year on February 10th, Valletta comes alive with one of Malta’s most significant religious feasts—the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck. This annual celebration honors St Paul, the Apostle who, according to tradition, brought Christianity to Malta in 60 AD after being shipwrecked on the island.
The feast is deeply rooted in Maltese culture and religion, drawing both locals and visitors to Valletta for a day of processions, church ceremonies, and community celebrations.
The History Behind the Feast
The story of St Paul’s shipwreck is recorded in the Bible in the Acts of the Apostles (Chapter 27-28). St Paul was being taken as a prisoner to Rome when his ship encountered a violent storm and was wrecked off the coast of Malta. The survivors, including Paul, swam to shore and were welcomed by the Maltese people. According to tradition, while in Malta, St Paul performed miracles, healed the sick, and converted many to Christianity, laying the foundation for the country’s strong Catholic faith.
The Collegiate Parish Church of St Paul’s Shipwreck in Valletta, one of the city’s oldest churches, is the focal point of this feast. The church houses a relic of St Paul’s wrist bone and part of the pillar on which he was beheaded in Rome, making it a significant place of pilgrimage.
How Valletta Celebrates the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck
The Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck is an important religious and cultural event in Malta, marked by a mix of church ceremonies, street festivities, and processions.
1. Solemn Church Services & Religious Celebrations
The day begins with High Mass at St Paul’s Shipwreck Church in Valletta, attended by religious leaders, local dignitaries, and large crowds of devotees. Throughout the day, special prayers and sermons take place, reflecting on St Paul’s impact on Malta.
2. Procession with the Statue of St Paul
One of the most anticipated moments of the feast is the procession of the statue of St Paul, which dates back to 1659. The life-sized, gilded wooden statue of the saint is carried through the streets of Valletta, accompanied by brass bands, clergy, and thousands of worshippers. As the procession moves through the city, locals throw confetti and flower petals, while church bells ring in celebration.
3. Traditional Band Marches & Street Festivities
Apart from the religious aspect, the feast is also a time for celebration in the streets of Valletta. Throughout the day, local band clubs play lively marches, creating a festive atmosphere in the capital. The streets are decorated with banners, lights, and Maltese flags, and food stalls offer traditional Maltese treats.
4. Fireworks & Celebratory Atmosphere
Although this feast does not include large-scale fireworks like the Feast of St Dominic or St Augustine, some local communities still organize small fireworks displays in the evening, marking the end of the celebrations.
Experiencing the Feast at Is-Suq Tal-Belt
Located in the heart of Valletta, Is-Suq Tal-Belt is an ideal spot to experience the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck while enjoying a great selection of food and drinks. With the city bustling with activity, it’s the perfect place to take a break, soak in the lively atmosphere, and taste authentic Maltese and international cuisine.
For the feast weekend, Is-Suq Tal-Belt will have extended opening hours, so visitors and locals alike can enjoy the celebrations without missing out on a great meal.
📅 Extended Opening Hours for St Paul’s Feast:
- Friday, Feb 7 – 11:00 – 23:00
- Saturday, Feb 8 – 11:00 – 23:00
- Sunday, Feb 9 – 11:00 – 23:00
- Monday, Feb 10 – 11:00 – 23:00
A Celebration of Faith & Tradition
The Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck is more than just a religious event—it is a celebration of Malta’s identity, faith, and heritage. Whether you are a local or a visitor, experiencing this feast in Valletta is a unique way to witness Maltese devotion and community spirit.
Join us at Is-Suq Tal-Belt to celebrate this important occasion in the heart of the city.
