Unique Time on the Island
Easter in Malta is a time deeply rooted in tradition and religious spirituality. The island’s residents participate in numerous ceremonies and festivities that combine religious elation with family traditions. The celebrations begin on Palm Sunday, when the faithful gather for processions. Malta is a place where each locality has particular customs related to the celebration of the Easter Triduum.
Unforgettable Processions
Good Friday processions are the most important part of the celebrations in Malta. Parish communities from all over the island organize spectacular parades featuring holy figures, with the most famous being in the towns of Mosta, Zebbug, and Valletta. Participants can be recognized by their historical costumes, symbolizing biblical characters. The processions are true reenactments of the Passion of Christ, where the silence is only interrupted by the rhythmic sound of drums.
Traditional Easter Dishes
Easter in Malta is also a time to taste traditional dishes. The tables are dominated by pies with spinach and ‘qażat’ cheese, and sweet pastries called ‘figolli.’ Figolla is an almond cake, which often takes shapes of sheep, crosses, or hearts. It’s also worth trying ‘ħobż tal-Malti’ – traditional Maltese bread and ‘lampuka pie.’ Shared meals are a moment of unity and sharing the joy of these days.
Time for Reflection and Community
For many Maltese, Easter is a time for reflection and community. After family feasting, they often go for long walks in the beautiful spring landscapes of the island. Malta’s historic churches become places of meditation and contemplation. Many of them host sacred music concerts, enhancing the spiritual experiences.
Joyous Easter Sundays
Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday are the culmination of celebrations. Children eagerly await gifts and sugar eggs. Masses in churches are full of joy because of the Resurrection of Christ. Saturday is also a time for traditional precision in egg artistry – a popular contest involving both the young and the old.
Easter Customs and Games
Maltese Easter customs also include various games. A popular one is the egg game – similar to the one known in Poland called rolling. Participants roll boiled eggs down an inclined table trying to keep them balanced for as long as possible. These games strengthen family bonds and allow experiencing joy in simple yet engaging ways.
Easter in Malta is a time full of traditions that blend the spiritual religious layer with family customs and regional flavors. Each of these events, from processions to communal celebrations, creates a unique atmosphere conducive to reflection and joy in being together. Discovering these customs can be an unforgettable experience for both the residents and tourists visiting the island.
