The village of Mqabba is celebrating a great milestone this year as it commemorates the 190th anniversary of the arrival of its cherished Titular Statue of Santa Marija, a symbol of faith and devotion that has remained at the heart of the community since 1836.

Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary in Mqabba dates back centuries, even before the village became an independent parish in 1598. At the time, Mqabba formed part of the Parish of Bir Miftuħ, which was also dedicated to Saint Mary.

Upon gaining parish status, the people of Mqabba chose the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary as their patroness, laying the foundations for a tradition that continues to this day.

By the early nineteenth century, the community's growing devotion inspired the commissioning of a new titular statue. Renowned Żejtun sculptor Mastru Xandru Farrugia was entrusted with carving the wooden masterpiece, which was completed at a cost of 250 skudi, with the timber sourced separately from the Government Dockyard.

The statue's arrival on Sunday, 14 August 1836, the eve of the Feast of Santa Marija, became one of the most memorable moments in the village's history. Hundreds of devotees gathered in Żejtun before accompanying the statue on its solemn journey through Ħal Għaxaq and Gudja, where church bells, celebratory petards and enthusiastic crowds welcomed the sacred image.

Mqabba itself was transformed for the occasion, with three triumphal arches erected to greet its new patroness. As evening fell, the statue processed beneath each arch before entering the Parish Church, where solemn liturgical celebrations, sacred music, a military salute and fireworks marked the historic occasion.

This year also marks fifty years since the Titular Statue has been carried in the feast procession by the Brothers of the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament wearing the distinctive red mozzetta.

As Mqabba celebrates this remarkable anniversary, the village also looks ahead to future milestones linked to the statue's silver pedestal and bradella (platform), further treasures that form part of its rich religious and artistic heritage.

Nearly two centuries after its arrival, the Titular Statue of Santa Marija continues to embody the faith, history and identity of the people of Mqabba.

Do you have any plans for Santa Marija weekend?