Culture
Exploring the pages of history! 1932 photos show when the ‘Helena’ bell in Birkirkara was consecrated
Looking back at the Birkirkara of 93 years ago.

Emma Galea

Exactly 93 years ago today, on the 22nd January of 1932, the ‘Helena’ bell, found in the Basilica of St Elena in Birkirkara, was consecrated by the Archbishop of the time, Mawru Caruana.

These photos uploaded by ‘Ghaqa Muzikali Sant’ Elena’ show the exact moment in time when the bell arrived to be blessed as many of Birkirkara’s residents gathered in crowds to witness this moment in time.

This huge bell was then taken up to the bell tower on the 24th January before it was rung for the first time on the 25th January. The day marked the feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul.

‘Helena’ was made by the Barigozzi company in Italy and arrived in Malta’s Grand Harbour earlier that month.

Have you ever visited this church in Birkirkara?

22nd January 2025


Emma Galea
Written by
Emma Galea
Emma is a Gozitan writer who loves all things related to English literature and history. When not busy studying or writing you will either find her immersed in a fictional book or at the cinema trying to watch as many films as she possibly can!