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Church of Our Lady of Victory: Valletta's First Church

Discover Valletta's first church, built in gratitude for the Great Siege victory, showcasing Baroque art and Maltese history.

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The Church of Our Lady of Victory, the first building in Valletta, commemorates the victory over the Ottomans in 1565. Built by Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette, it features Baroque architecture and houses significant paintings, marking a pivotal moment in Maltese history.

A brief summary to Church of Our Lady of Victory

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual Feast of Our Lady of Victory on September 8th to experience traditional celebrations.
  • Take a moment to admire the vaulted ceiling painted by Alessio Erardi, depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through Valletta to see other historical landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From City Gate, walk straight along Republic Street, Valletta's main thoroughfare. Turn right onto South Street. The Church of Our Lady of Victory is located on the left, a short distance from Pjazza Teatru Rjal.

  • Public Transport

    Take any bus route that terminates at the Valletta Bus Terminus. From the terminus, walk towards City Gate and follow the walking directions. A single bus journey costs €2.50 in summer and €2.00 in winter.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. Ask your driver to take you to City Gate in Valletta. From there, follow the walking directions. A taxi from the airport to Valletta costs approximately €15-€20.

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Discover more about Church of Our Lady of Victory

The Church of Our Lady of Victory holds a special place in Maltese history as the first church and building erected in Valletta. Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette founded it to celebrate the Knights' victory over the Ottoman invaders in 1565. The church stands on the site where a religious ceremony inaugurated the laying of Valletta's foundation stone on March 28, 1566. Dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin, the church's titular painting behind the main altar depicts the birth of the Blessed Virgin. The church served as the Conventual church of the Order of St John from 1571 to 1577, until St John's Co-Cathedral was completed. In 1617, it became the parish church of the Order and was dedicated to St Anthony the Abbot. The church's architecture reflects the Baroque style, with a façade added in 1752. Inside, the vaulted ceiling, painted by Alessio Erardi in the early 18th century, showcases scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. The church also houses paintings brought to Malta by the Knights of St John and works by the Maltese artist Francesco Zahra. The heart of Grand Admiral Angelo Emo is interred here, marked by a monument sculpted by Vincenzo Dimech. Damaged during World War II, the church has undergone extensive restoration. Today, Din l-Art Ħelwa, the National Trust of Malta, manages the church and continues restoration efforts. The church is open to the public and hosts religious services.

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