A church on Malta’s cliffs: A story of centuries of devotion, decline, and renewal
The earliest documented information about a church built along the cliffside dates back to the 15th century.
Situated dramatically along the rugged cliffs of Dingli and shaped by centuries of wind, sea, and devotion, this small church tells a story that stretches far beyond its modest size.
The earliest documented information about a church built along the cliffside dates back to the 15th century. This shows the long-standing religious and cultural importance of the area. By the mid-16th century, these surroundings were known as Marija Maddalena, reflecting the dedication associated with the site at the time.
In 1575, the Apostolic Inquisitor Pietro Dusina reported that the church was in a very poor state of repair, suggesting years of neglect and exposure to the harsh coastal environment. As a result, the original structure did not survive in its early form.
The present church, as it stands today, dates back to the 17th century and represents a period of restoration and renewal.
An inscription above the main doorway records that the building was restored and reopened to the public during the episcopate of Bishop Balaguer.
This inscription serves as a reminder of the church’s historical continuity and its enduring role as a place of worship overlooking the cliffs.
Have you ever visited this church on the cliffs?