Opening times
Monday - Friday 10.00hrs - 17.00hrs
Saturday 11.00hrs - 16.00hrs
Sunday closed
A 15th-century priory offering an ecclesiastical museum, a cultural and community centre for events.
In 1460, Fra Peter Zurki and two Dominicans from the Reformed Sicilian Province of B. Jeremias (Fra Andrea de Morisea and Fra Pietro de Platea) who had arrived in the 1450s had already taken up residence in a Rabat priory then under construction adjoining the existing church. Both were completed by 1505. A 1466 decree exists by which the Bishops of Malta Anton de Alagona O.S.B. and John Paternò, together with the Canons of the Cathedral Chapter, gave the friars plots of land in the neigbourhood of the church and priory of Our Lady of the Grotto.
Monday - Friday 10.00hrs - 17.00hrs
Saturday 11.00hrs - 16.00hrs
Sunday closed
St. Dominic's Priory in Rabat, Malta, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dominican Order and the rich religious history of Malta. Dating back to the late 16th century, the church's construction unfolded over the centuries, resulting in a captivating blend of architectural styles. The exterior showcases Baroque influences, evident in the intricate detailing of the facade, while the interior boasts a harmonious fusion of Renaissance and Baroque elements.
The Church of St Dominic and the Blessed Virgin, is a repository of cultural and religious treasures, featuring ornate altars, statues, and paintings that contribute to the overall aesthetic grandeur.
Among these, the high altar, often adorned with an image or statue of St. Dominic, serves as a focal point for worship. Throughout the interior, various chapels dedicated to saints house relics and religious artefacts, adding to the spiritual significance of the site.
St. Dominic's Priory is not merely a place of worship; it is a cultural and historical landmark. Its walls resonate with centuries of devotion and mark an essential chapter in Malta's religious heritage. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the church, not only for its religious significance but also for the insight it provides into the architectural evolution of the region.
The Church of St Dominic and the Blessed Virgin's role extends beyond its physical structure, as it hosts a variety of religious events and celebrations throughout the year. These occasions, including processions, Masses, and observances on feast days dedicated to St. Dominic and the Blessed Virgin, further enrich the spiritual experience for those who gather within its hallowed walls.
In essece St.Dominic's Priory is a living testament to Malta's religious and cultural tapestry, inviting individuals to explore its historical depths, admire its architectural splendour, and participate in the ongoing tradition of worship that has echoed through its halls for centuries.
"Our Lady of the Grotto", in the Dominican Priory, Rabat, Malta, has a history dating back to around 1400 when the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to a hunter in a cave near Mdina.
Although the event wasn't documented until 1670, devotion to Our Lady of the Grotto persisted. Over the centuries, the cave transformed into a chapel, and later a larger church and priory were built by the Dominicans. The devotion received papal confirmation, and the feast day was moved to the Sunday closest to June 2nd after the coronation in 1957.
The devotion gained momentum in 1450 when three Dominican friars founded the Order in Malta. Throughout the centuries, various graces and miracles were attributed to Our Lady of the Grotto, from miraculous healings to protection from epidemics.
Images of Our Lady of the Grotto evolved over time, with the original image unknown. In 1999, tears were reported on a marble replica's face, leading to an inquiry supervised by the Vatican. Although the tears disappeared, the event remains embedded in local religious narrative.
The devotion to Our Lady of the Grotto continues as a cherished aspect of Maltese Marian devotion, fostering a deep connection between the people and the age-old image of the Virgin Mary in this sacred location.
Discover the hidden treasures within the cloister at St. Dominic's Priory in Rabat, Malta, where a unique museum unveils centuries of religious heritage. Liturgical elegance takes centre stage with intricately adorned chalices and resplendent vestments, offering a visual journey through the aesthetic evolution of religious rituals.
Ancient manuscripts, with delicate script and illuminated illustrations, provide a glimpse into the monks' spiritual and intellectual pursuits. The museum's archaeological wonders, including fragments and relics, peel back the layers of history beneath the priory's foundations.
This curated odyssey through faith and time invites visitors to explore the intersection of religious devotion and historical significance, creating an immersive experience that bridges the past and the present within the serene confines of the cloister.
Step into the immersive realm of St. Dominic's Priory in Rabat, Malta, where the spirit of the Dominican Friars comes to life through a groundbreaking 360-degree audiovisual experience. This innovative presentation transcends traditional boundaries, enveloping visitors in a mesmerising journey through the history, spirituality, and daily lives of the Dominican Friars.
As you step into the designated space, the environment transforms into a living canvas, surrounding you with a panoramic projection that spans 360 degrees.
The projection explores the founding principles of the Dominican Order and the enduring impact of their spiritual endeavours.
Witness the daily lives of the Dominican Friars as if stepping into a living tableau. The projection captures the rhythm of monastic life, from prayerful contemplation in the cloister to scholarly pursuits.
The visual journey extends beyond the physical walls of the priory, unveiling the spiritual landscapes that shaped the friars' devotion. Whether walking through the cloister or participating in communal prayers, the immersive experience lets you explore the priory's sacred spaces with a sense of presence and connection.
Complementing the panoramic visuals, the audio component enhances the immersive quality of the experience.
This audiovisual experience at St. Dominic's Priory transcends conventional storytelling, offering a transformative encounter with history and spirituality. This unique presentation invites you to step into the vibrant past of the Dominican Friars in a way that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.
St. Dominic's Priory in Rabat, Malta, encompasses not only a magnificent church but also a tranquil cloister that adds a dimension of serenity to the monastic complex.
Dating back to the late 16th century, the cloister is an architectural gem characterised by a rectangular open space surrounded by covered walkways adorned with columns and arches.
This design creates a sheltered path around a central garden, offering monks a peaceful retreat for contemplation and meditation away from the rigours of daily life.
The purpose of the cloister extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. It serves as a symbolic bridge between the enclosed monastic life and the outside world. The central garden, often adorned with religious statuary or a fountain, may symbolise the Edenic garden, evoking a sense of paradise and tranquillity.
The architecture itself is laden with symbolism, representing the monks' spiritual journey and the passage of time.
Strolling through the cloister, visitors can admire the intricate carvings on columns and arches, contributing to the cultural and historical heritage of St. Dominic's Priory. Beyond its artistic significance, the cloister has practical functionality. The covered walkways offer monks a sheltered space for exercise, reading, and communal activities.
This cloister is not merely an architectural feature; it is a living testament to the daily lives of the Dominican monks who sought solace and reflection within its confines. As part of the larger priory complex, the cloister adds depth to the spiritual experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the historical and religious tapestry of Malta.
Whether exploring the rich symbolism, admiring the craftsmanship, or simply enjoying the tranquillity, the cloister at St. Dominic's Priory stands as a timeless sanctuary within the vibrant narrative of Maltese religious and cultural history.