Mosta Dome

Church in Mosta

CC BY-SA 3.0 / GFDL

The Mosta Dome, or Rotunda of Mosta, is one of Malta's most breathtaking landmarks — an architectural marvel known for its vast dome, elegant neoclassical design, and miraculous World War II story. Dedicated to St. Mary, this grand church stands as a powerful symbol of faith, beauty, and resilience at the heart of Malta.Mosta Dome

Mosta Dome which is also know as the Rotunda of Mosta is perhaps the most impressive church in Malta. The church was built bwtween 1833 -1860's and is dedicated to St. Mary and is furnished in the neo-classical style.

The dome or rotunda is the main feature, visible from many parts of the island and is one of the worlds largest domes (some say the 4th largest in Europe), measuring 121 feet and 220 feet high (bigger than St. Paul’s Cathedral in London).

The exterior is modeled on the Pantheon in Rome, it’s facade has a portico with six Ionic columns, which is flanked by two bell towers. The interior is also stunning, painted blue, gold, and white and the floors are paved with marble.

During the Second World War, the town of Mosta was prone to aerial bombardment due to its proximity to the airfield at Ta' Qali. On 9 April 1942 the church was almost destroyed when, during an air raid, a 200kg bomb fell through the dome without exploding. All the 300 people who had taken refuge in the church were left unharmed. This event was interpreted by the Maltese as a miracle. On the 9th April, 1942 the detonator was removed and a close replica is now on display inside the church. Two years after the end of WWII the German pilot who dropped the bomb came to Mosta to apologize for his actions during the campaign, he was forgiven by the locals.

The Mosta Dome appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Mosta!

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