Holy Week in Malta is steeped in tradition and deep devotion.

During this time of year, many village homes decorate their ground-floor windows with miniature statues and draperies, while illuminated crosses are displayed on balconies.

On Palm Sunday, some parishes recreate the Last Supper table, a tradition rooted in centuries-old celebrations at the Oratory of the Blessed Sacrament in Valletta, while Maundy Thursday sees the ritual of the ‘seven visits’, where devotees visit seven churches, reflecting on Christ’s final hours. After, families enjoy Qagħaq tal-Appostli, a ring-shaped loaf of bread made with honey, almonds and sesame seeds.

Good Friday is marked by solemn processions, where statues representing the Stations of the Cross are carried through streets in a moving display of faith. Unlike pageants, these processions encourage parishioners to gather in silence and reverence.

On Easter Sunday, the mood shifts to joy, as families celebrate the resurrection of Christ. In some towns, groups of men run with massive statues of the Risen Christ on their backs towards the church, while children chase after, and parishioners cheer them on. Families gather for large meals, traditionally featuring lamb, and children are gifted figolli (see story on PG74), a biscuity almond cake that comes in all sorts of shapes. The flavours of kwareżimal, a spiced almond cake, and karamelli, sweets made from carob and honey, are additional highlights of Malta’s culinary heritage.

For a guide to upcoming religious celebrations and traditional feasts across the Maltese Islands, be sure to visit inkontru.app