Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck

The basics

Interior highlights include frescoes of the life of St. Paul by Attilio Palombi and Giuseppe Calì, an elaborate altarpiece festooned with silver, by Matteo Perez d'Aleccio, and a vast organ. The dome is covered with biblical scenes painted by Maltese artist Lorenzo Gafà. The church boasts two relics of St. Paul: a wrist bone and part of the wooden column on which he was apparently beheaded in Rome, along with a wooden statue of the saint that’s carried in processions on his feast day.

Things to know before you go

• The church is a must-visit for art and architecture fans, as well as Catholic pilgrims.

• While not required, it’s appropriate to dress conservatively (with knees and shoulders covered) out of respect for local customs.

• The church is wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

St. Paul's Shipwreck is in the heart of pedestrianized Valletta, a 10-minute walk from the bus terminal. It’s easiest to reach by public transportation, though if you do have a car, you can park in a designated area outside the City Gate and then walk the rest of the way. The church entrance is through a side door, just off Triq Santa Lucia.

When to get there

Church opening times can be inconsistent, but generally you'll find the church open in the mornings, then reopening for a bit in the afternoon after closing for lunch. Mass takes place on Sundays and major Catholic holy days. The most festive day of the year is February 10, St. Paul’s Feast Day, which features a procession and special Mass.

Saint Paul

St. Paul is one of the three patron saints of Malta, and his shipwreck on the island in AD 60 is regarded as one of the nation’s most important events. He was an apostle of Jesus (but not one of the 12 apostles), and was instrumental in spreading Christianity throughout Asia Minor and Europe. Thirteen books of the New Testament, collectively known as the Pauline Epistles, are attributed to Paul.