Local Religion
The local religion is a sensitive topic in the Maltese Archipelago. The people are very devoted and weekly liturgical practice is like the law. It is a habit that each person has his/her favorite Saint, to whom they ask for graces.
The strong devotion can also be seen by the many crosses, and statues found around the island. You will also notice small shrines on the facade of old buildings. Occasionally, you will encounter small tombstones remembering a tragedy that would have caused the death of an unfortunate person.
The vast majority of the population, about 95% is Roman Catholic. In fact all of the churches on Gozo are Catholic and fall under the Diocese of Gozo. However, each church has its own architecture, decor, and a particular Saint to whom it is dedicated.
St Paul's Shipwreck
Throughout history, the governing of the Maltese island passed from one ruler to another. Such change was not easy for the local inhabitants. The new governing body would dictate new ways of life including changing the religion. In the year 60 AD Saint Paul was saved from a shipwreck in Malta. History also narrates that he survived after being bitten by a poisonous snake. Witnessing such event, the local people changed to the Catholic religion which still reigns strong today.
The local church had, and still has a strong influence on the island. You will find a big church (probably a Basilica) at the center of each village. This was used as a starting point of a village, where residential houses were built around it. Almost every church had to be enlarged along the years because of the growing population. Occasionally, this would mean knocking down nearby houses to make space for the church. Most of the villages’ churches are big, well maintained, and heavily decorated by gold, marble, and other precious materials.
Some of the churches that are worth a visit:
It is imperative to wear appropriately!!
Popular Chapels
Roaming through the village streets, you will encounter other small churches and chapels. These will vary in size, architecture, decoration, and condition. This depends on the original purpose of the building. Also, an important factor was who financed them. Some of them are not in use nowadays.
You will find some chapels in the countryside. Others will be at the periphery of a village were long time ago, when the chapel was built was still fertile agricultural land. Some also carry a legend or a myth like the chapel of Saint Demetrius.
Following are the most popular chapels to visit:
Pilgrimage
The island of Gozo has one official Catholic pilgrimage. The walk to Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary was famous. People used to come from the sister island of Malta, and walk all the way to this shrine.
Cemeteries
A famous cemetery on the island of Gozo is found on the road leading to the popular Ramla Bay. The recently built cemetery is very well maintained and enjoys spectacular valley views. A circular chapel sits in the center of the site. People like to stop by on their way to the beach.
