Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 10:29 am
Located in the heart of Mosta stands the impressive Mosta Dome, also known as the Rotunda of Mosta. However, its official title is the Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady.
Built in the 1800s, the Roman Catholic parish church and Minor Basilica is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture with a slight hint of Rome’s Pantheon.
The church façade has a portico with six Ionic columns and two bell towers. But its main feature, which earns it the name of a rotunda, is the impressive dome with an external height of 61 metres and a diameter of roughly 37 metres, making it an attractive feature on Malta’s skyline.
The dome is also the third largest unsupported dome in the world!
The interior is also pretty stunning -painted blue, gold, and white and decorated with stunning statues, stucco mouldings, and gilded and decorative elements.
So, yes, I know there are a lot of churches in Malta, 359 of them, but this one is particularly impressive and worth a visit. What distinguishes Mosta Church from all the others is an extraordinary incident from World War II.
The Story Of The Bomb
At around 16:40 on 9th April 1942, during a bombing raid on Malta, a 500kg (1,102lbs) German aerial bomb pierced through the church’s dome, smashed a hole into the floor below, but amazingly failed to detonate. At the time this happened, there were around 300 worshippers gathered in the church for Evening Mass.
Luckily, no one was injured or killed, and as this event happened during a church service, and of course, Maltese being a Catholic nation, many perceived this as divine intervention.
In total, three bombs were dropped on the church – two deflected without exploding, while one penetrated the ceiling.
The Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal unit successfully disarmed the third bomb, disposing of it in the sea off the west coast of Malta.
A replica of the bomb is on display in the sacristy.
Two years after the war ended, the German pilot who had dropped the bomb came to Mosta to apologise and fortunately, the locals forgave him.
However, the question arises: Was it genuinely a miracle that the bomb failed to explode?
Another narrative exists, although I do not know if there’s any truth to this version.
Workers from Czechoslovakia, living under Nazi rule, were enlisted as labourers to support the German military effort. It is rumoured that some of these workers played a role in crafting the bomb that targeted Mosta Dome.
However, the intriguing twist in the tale suggests that these workers, who opposed the Nazis, chose to subvert their assignment. Instead of loading the bomb with explosives, they opted to fill the metal shell with sand.
In fact, out of the 17,000 tons of bombs that blitzed Malta between 1940 and 1943, 15% failed to explode.
Your Visit To The Malta Dome
The self-guided tour first leads you to the roof, which is a bit of a steep climb. The view from the rooftop is not particularly impressive, but does reflect present-day Malta’s love for concrete and cranes.
However, if you can overlook these modern aspects, stepping inside the church offers a chance to marvel at the intricate ceiling artwork of the dome and a unique perspective of the church itself.
Then, it’s time to head back downstairs, wander around the church, and see the replica of the bomb.
If you visit around Christmas time, there are some fantastic nativity scenes to see.
Whether you have faith or not, Mosta Church truly offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
How Much Time Do I Need To See The Mosta Rotunda?
You only need an hour to explore the church, and the people of Mosta probably won’t agree with this, but there’s not much else to see in Mosta, so combine a trip to the Rotunda with a trip to Mdina.
But before you leave, pay a quick visit to the war shelter located just in front of the church.
World War II Shelter
Don’t be misled by the entrance appearing closed; just give the gate a gentle push, and you’ll find yourself in an interesting museum experience.
But take care when entering, as the ceiling is quite low, which can cause problems if you’re tall like me.
Some fascinating photos taken during the war and displays showcasing various local trades are inside. It’s worth a quick visit.
Mosta Dome Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday from 09.30 till 18.00 – last entrance 17.30
Saturday from 09.30 till 16.30 – last entrance 16.00
Sunday from 12:00 till 17.00 – last entrance 16.30
How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Mosta Rotunda?
The cost is €5, which includes the entrance to the Mosta Basilica, the rooftop and inner balcony of the dome, an Audio Guide through a mobile phone app and the World War II Shelter.
How To Get To The Mosta Dome
The Mosta Dome is very easy to find as it is located right in the centre of Mosta Square.
By Car
If you’re planning to drive in Malta, just be aware that parking can be a complete nightmare.
By Bus
These are the bus routes:
- From Valletta: take bus 41, 42, 44, 45, or 48 and disembark at bus stop Rotunda 4.
- From St Julian’s: take bus 202 from near Balluta Bay and stop at Rotunda 5.
- From Sliema: Take the 202 or 203 bus and get off at Rotunda 3.
- From Buġibba: take bus 48 or 186 and stop at Rotunda 3.
- From Mellieħa: take bus 41 or 44 and stop at Rotunda 3.
A single bus fare is €2,50 and is valid for two hours. So, please keep your ticket and use it for your bus to Mdina!
Hop-on-Hop-off
You can also take the North Route of the Hop-on-hop-off bus routes. Get your tickets in advance here!
By Taxi
I recommend downloading the apps for ECabs, Bolt or Uber. Avoid the White Taxis as they are usually double the price.
Tips For Visiting Mosta Rotunda
If you wish to attend Mass, you can check out the times on the official website of the Mosta Parish.
Look on CruiseMapper to see if there are any cruise ships in that day as visiting the church is a popular cruise excursion. In the summer, there are ships on most days, but there are far fewer ships out of season.
Even though signs everywhere request you to be quiet and respectful, some cruise tour guides have loud voices. Fortunately, they move through reasonably quickly. Why can’t they use the Quietvox like Viking Cruises?
If you need a coffee or a bite to eat, quite a few places are close to the church. But eateries are nicer in Mdina.
If your time in Malta is brief and you don’t have time to visit Mosta, which would be a shame, but you want to see a church, then I recommend St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. But go early in the day or at lunchtime when the cruise passengers have headed back to the ship.
For More Posts On Malta, Check These Out.
The Best Way To Get From Malta Airport To Your Accommodation
Mdina – Malta’s Ancient Capital
Malta Cart Ruts – Clapham Junction
St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta
The Malta Experience in Valletta
The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission, but don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you.
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Fascinating! It is now on my list of places to visit!
I will add it to my list on my next trip to Malta! Thank you!!!!
MALTA WAS WONDERFUL. I often recommend it and hope to visit again. A country fill, of history and mystery!
There are a few gems left 🙂
It’s a new concept to me that you have to pay to visit a church.
It’s quite a few churches these days that charge to visit these days, unless you are attending a service.