The Department of Information of Malta posted a throwback photo on their social media to take a look back at the remarkable history of the Dominican Church of the Annunciation in Vittoriosa.

During a heavy WWII attack, the church suffered immense damage, losing invaluable historical and artistic treasures. The ornate nave, adorned with delicate paintings by Lazzaro Pisani, the sacristy, and most of the priory were destroyed.

Remarkably, the dome remained suspended on three pillars until heavy rains two weeks later caused its collapse, erasing two years of artistic work by Gian Battista Conti before it could be fully appreciated.

In this photo from DOI archives, the Church's Dome is in fact missing. The resilient Dominican community returned in December 1942, and the church was finally completed in August 1960.

Today, it stands as a testament to perseverance, with its stunning artworks by Emvin Cremona, Rafel Bonnici Calì, and Ganni Vella continuing to inspire.

This photo, taken probably in the late 1950s, shows that works were still being carried out. It is also worth noting that the statue of St. Elias is on the opposite side of the road.

The Dominican Church of the Annunciation is a symbol of resilience and artistic heritage, rising from the ruins of war to become a beacon of hope and beauty in Vittoriosa.

Did you know the history behind this church in Vittoriosa?