Parish Church of
The Annunciation of Our Lady In Tarxien
​The story of this church kicks off in 1610, when the people of Tarxien decided to build a bigger, grander church right in the heart of their village. They got permission to replace three smaller chapels—dedicated to St. Paul, St. Luke, and St. Nicholas—with one majestic parish church. By 1627, the main structure was complete, and over the next century, it evolved into the baroque beauty we see today, with side chapels added in 1740 and a stunning façade completed by 1782 .
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Art That Tells a Story
Step inside (virtually!) and you’ll be wowed by the artwork. The high altar features Pietro Gagliardi’s 1874 painting of the Annunciation, a masterpiece that was recently restored to its original glory . Nearby, you’ll find Francesco Zahra’s 1770 depiction of the Virgin of the Rosary, complete with intricate scenes from the mysteries of the Rosary.​
But that’s not all—look up! The dome and ceiling were painted in the 1950s by Ä anni Vella, adding layers of color and depth to the church’s already rich interior . And don’t miss the works by Rafel Bonnici Calì, a Tarxien native, whose paintings celebrate the Virgin Mary in powerful, symbolic scenes .​
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A Community’s Labor of Love
This church isn’t just a building—it’s a reflection of the Tarxien community’s devotion. Over the years, locals have poured their hearts (and wallets) into restoring and preserving it. From the red tapestries imported from Livorno in 1767 to the careful restoration of its stonework in the 20th century, every detail tells a story of pride and perseverance
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Ready to Explore?
Whether you’re a Maltese local or a curious traveler, this virtual tour is your chance to experience the magic of Tarxien’s parish church up close. Click below to start your journey—and don’t forget to look up!