The storm-damaged Chapel of Hal Millieri restored to its former glory just in time for the feast!
The medieval chapel needed some serious TLC.
The medieval chapel of Hal Millieri in Zurrieq is finally accessible to the public again. The chapel was undergoing certain repairs due to damages that occurred during the nasty storm in February. The chapel’s rubble walls and pathways were severely damaged, but thankfully have been repaired just in time for the village festivities, which will be held on the 24th March.
A jump back in time
Hal Millieri is situated in the old village of Casal Millieri which lies between the towns of Zurrieq and Mqabba. The village was first documented in 1419 and its origins date back to Roman times at least, but some say they go as far back as pre-historic times. The Chapel of the Annunciation itself was a major landmark of Malta’s medieval past and dates to around 1450. Archaeological excavations show that it was actually built over the site of an earlier chapel (possibly dating back to the 13th century) and a much older Roman rural complex.
The gorgeous chapel
The chapel is best known for its architectural features dating back to the Middle Ages and which are honestly, pretty spectacular. The chapel features a unique set of fresco paintings that embellish the chapel's inner walls. The frescoes have been restored over the years by Din L-Art Helwa, an organisation which constantly strives to conserve important heritage sites such as this one.
Din L-Art Helwa’s guided tour
The chapel will be open to the public on 24th March from 9am to 6pm during the annual celebration in honour of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. The volunteer organisation which holds the chapel in trust will be offering two guided tours of the site by Stanley Farrugia Randon at 11.15am and Anthony Mangion, curator of the chapel, at 4pm.