Ta’ Pinu Basilica, Gozo

Basilica in Victoria (Rabat), Gozo

Rising gracefully from the open countryside near Għarb, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu is one of Gozo's most cherished landmarks — both a place of worship and a symbol of faith. Its honey-colored limestone walls and tall bell tower stand out against the green fields and blue sky, creating one of the island's most iconic sights. Built in the early 20th century in the Neo-Romanesque style, the basilica is famous for its miraculous history and its peaceful setting, attracting pilgrims and travelers from around the world.

The story of Ta' Pinu dates back to a small chapel recorded as early as 1575. In 1883, a local woman named Karmni Grima reportedly heard the Virgin Mary speak to her inside the chapel — an event that transformed the site into a destination of devotion and healing. Countless offerings of gratitude, known as ex-votos, still fill the basilica's side chapel, each representing prayers answered or blessings received. The new basilica was completed in 1932, preserving the original chapel behind the main altar. Today, it continues to be a focal point of religious life on Gozo, recognized by the Vatican and visited by several popes.

Inside, the basilica radiates quiet beauty and reverence. Sunlight pours through stained-glass windows onto intricate stone carvings and mosaics that depict scenes from the Virgin's life. The high altar and surrounding chapels are adorned with marble and fine artwork, while the atmosphere remains deeply serene. Outside, the Stations of the Cross lead up a nearby hill, offering both a spiritual journey and spectacular views over Gozo's rolling landscape.

How to Visit Ta' Pinu Basilica

By Car: Ta' Pinu is located about 10 minutes from Victoria (Rabat). Follow signs for Għarb or Dwejra, and you'll see the basilica rising prominently in the distance. Ample free parking is available directly opposite the church.
By Bus: From Victoria's bus terminus, take Route 308, which stops right by the basilica entrance. The ride takes roughly 15 minutes.
Tours: Many Gozo day tours, including Tuk Tuk and quad-bike excursions, include Ta' Pinu as a stop — often paired with nearby Dwejra Bay or Ta' Pinu Viewpoint.
Opening Hours: The basilica is open daily, generally from morning until early evening. Entry is free, but modest dress is required — shoulders and knees should be covered inside.

What to Expect

Expect a place of tranquility and inspiration. The Ta' Pinu Basilica is not just an architectural landmark — it's a living place of faith. You'll find visitors lighting candles, praying silently, and admiring the sacred art that fills the space. The surrounding grounds are open and peaceful, making it a wonderful stop for reflection, photography, or simply enjoying Gozo's countryside views.

If you have time, follow the path of the marble Stations of the Cross that winds up the nearby hill — the views from the top are breathtaking, especially near sunset. Whether you come for religious reasons or simply to experience Gozo's cultural heart, Ta' Pinu offers a sense of peace and perspective that lingers long after you leave.

Interesting Facts about Ta' Pinu Basilica

1. The Miracle That Started It All
The story of Ta' Pinu began in 1883, when Karmni Grima, a local woman from Għarb, heard a mysterious voice calling her to pray inside a small countryside chapel. The voice — believed to be that of the Virgin Mary — sparked an outpouring of devotion that spread across Gozo and Malta. Many locals reported healings and miracles soon after, turning the site into a revered place of pilgrimage.

2. Built to Replace — Yet Preserve — the Old Chapel
When the new basilica was constructed between 1920 and 1932, special care was taken to preserve the original chapel where the miraculous voice was heard. Today, this small, centuries-old shrine still stands behind the main altar, seamlessly integrated into the grand new basilica.

3. A Basilica with Papal Blessings
Ta' Pinu holds a special place in the heart of the Catholic Church. It was elevated to the rank of Minor Basilica in 1935, and has since been visited by three popes — Pope John Paul II (1990), Pope Benedict XVI (2010), and Pope Francis (2022). Each visit reinforced the site's reputation as one of Malta's most important spiritual landmarks.

4. A Sanctuary of Thanksgiving and Healing
Inside one of the side chapels, visitors can see hundreds of ex-votos — small tokens and offerings left by people who believe they received divine help or healing through the intercession of Our Lady of Ta' Pinu. These heartfelt displays include photographs, notes, and symbolic objects representing lives touched by faith.

5. Panoramic Setting and the Way of the Cross
Ta' Pinu's setting is as striking as its story. The basilica stands in open countryside with panoramic views stretching to the coast. Just outside, a hilltop trail marked by 14 marble Stations of the Cross leads visitors to a viewpoint overlooking Gozo — a peaceful place for reflection and photography, especially at sunset.

The Ta’ Pinu Basilica, Gozo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Victoria (Rabat), Gozo!

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