The Mosta Dome is one of the biggest churches in Europe, and has been described as a magnificent building like no other. And, well, it's easy to see why in these shots recently posted to Facebook page Malta Landscape Photography!

The Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, also known as the Rotunda of Mosta or the Mosta Dome, is found in the heart of the central town and is, unsurprisingly, a major tourist attraction. It was built between 1833 and 1860 in a neoclassical design, and is believed to be inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. 

It's biggest claim to fame however is the size of its impressive dome - thought to be the third largest unsupported dome in the world.

It's second claim to fame is far scarier, however. Mosta's Rotunda narrowly avoided destruction in World War II, during an air raid in April 1942, when a bomb pierced the dome and fell into the church during Mass, but failed to explode. The Maltese have (obviously) interpreted this as a miracle, and a replica of the bomb can be found in the sacristy of the church.

In 2015, the parish put in a request to be reclassified as a basilica, and much to the delight of the locals, the Vatican granted the parish a status of Minor Basilica just this year, on 29^th July 2018.

Just look at her, what a show off!