New & now
5 beautiful old photos of the feast of San Martin that are a blast from the past!
The tradition dates back to the late 4th century.

Jillian Mallia
van
Bambole van
The feast of San Martin is a popular celebration among the Maltese, and there are many traditions involved in this local festa, which is celebrated in the rural village of Bahrija. As these beautiful old photos show, among the traditions associated with the feast, a van would transport bambole (toy dolls) to the fair every year to give out to children, in celebration of San Martin.
priest
Fr Martin
Fr Martin, a well-known priest among the locals of Baħrija, was present at every year’s celebrations, helping with the preparations for the feast. He distributed traditional sweets and toys to the children present, and also had a box sent over from the Vatican!
dundjan
Turkey roasting
This old food truck-styled van would serve roast turkey to those visiting. It was also a meet-up spot for locals to grab a drink and have a chat.
saverin
Traditional procession
As tradition would have it, a procession celebrating the feast of San Martin would happen twice a day, depicting the religious story of St Martin. The village would be adorned with traditional decorations and lights, and local clerical clothing would be worn.
crowd
Folla nies
As we say in Maltese, folla nies kienet tinġabar għall-festa! (A large crowd would gather for the festivities). San Martin is a very popular feast among the locals, especially those living in Baħrija. Many enjoy celebrating this much-awaited feast every year, and this year will be no different!

23rd October 2018


Jillian Mallia
Written by
Jillian Mallia
A book lover, writer and globetrotter who loves exploring new places and the local gems that the Maltese Islands have to offer. An avid foodie and arts fanatic, Jillian searches the island and beyond for the perfect settings to write about.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
They were particularly loved by the community for their impeccable bread.

Emma Galea
New & now
New & now
They’re common in Maltese waters during this time of year.

Emma Galea
New & now

Lyndsey Grima
New & now
New & now
New & now
From pastizzi trays to figolli cutters and carnival crowns, Sebastian shares his passion for the manual trade and how it has characterised most of his life.

Edward Bonello