San Gwann is quite a busy town right in the centre of Malta and chances are that if you passed by some of San Gwann’s busy roads you noticed this chapel.

San Ġwann’s tal-Għarar Chapel was built by a family in 1546 for their own private use but a century later it no religious activities were being practised in the chapel. This is why the Bishop at the time, Bishop Balaguer stated that it should no longer be used as a chapel in 1659.

However, not long after, it was opened for service once again in 1672.

The medieval chapel has quite the typical architecture of the medieval chapels that were built in Malta around this time. It has an unpretentious exterior and a small sacristy attached to it.

What's quite particular about this chapel however is the plaque on the façade of the chapel stating ‘Non Gode l’Immunita’ Ecclesia’.

During those times, criminals who were trying to avoid being captured could seek refuge in a chapel or church, yet this particular chapel did not accept them.

The chapel was recently restored back in 2016.