St. Dominic's Convent, Rabat

Priory in Rabat

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Continentaleurope

St. Dominic's Convent is one of Malta's most peaceful and intriguing religious sites, quietly nestled away from the busier streets of Valletta. It's a place where faith, legend, and cinematic history intertwine, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the island's spiritual and cultural depth. Though it remains relatively unknown compared to Malta's grander attractions, the convent deserves far more attention for its enduring historical and religious significance. Within its walls, centuries of devotion and Dominican tradition continue to shape a living story that bridges Malta's medieval past and modern fame.

The Origins of St. Dominic’s Convent

According to local tradition, around the year 1400, a hunter living in a nearby cave experienced a vision of the Virgin Mary. In gratitude, he built a small shrine on the site to honor her. Roughly twenty years later, three Dominican friars arrived in Malta and chose this very spot to establish their priory — the humble beginnings of what would become St. Dominic's Convent. Since then, it has remained an active center of Dominican worship and scholarship, its chapel and cloisters resonating with centuries of prayer and reflection. The convent's longevity and spiritual continuity make it a cherished landmark in Malta's ecclesiastical heritage.

Gardens of Serenity and Cinematic Fame

The priory gardens are among the most picturesque in Rabat and have become a favorite subject for photographers and visitors alike. Shaded pathways, graceful archways, and flowering greenery create an atmosphere of serenity — a perfect setting for quiet contemplation or a leisurely stroll. Beyond their natural beauty, the gardens achieved international recognition as a filming location for Game of Thrones. They famously appeared as the Red Keep gardens, where Cersei Lannister warned Ned Stark, “When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.” This blend of peaceful spirituality and modern cinematic allure makes the convent one of Rabat’s most fascinating attractions.

Visiting St. Dominic’s Convent

While St. Dominic's Convent remains a working monastery, it warmly welcomes visitors during limited opening hours, typically for one hour each day. Visitors are asked to remain respectful, as this is still an active religious community dedicated to worship and contemplation. Those who make the effort to visit are rewarded with an intimate encounter with Malta's spiritual heritage — a place where faith, legend, and popular culture meet in an atmosphere that feels both timeless and alive.

The St. Dominic's Convent appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Rabat!

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