Il-Madonna tal-Ghar - the subterranean crypt at Mellieha

Abstract

This article focuses on the subterranean crypt in Mellieha named Il-Madonna tal-Ghar. A small man-made underground chapel by Mario de Vasi dating back to the 17th century. This excavated natural cave was created by the Sicilian wine merchant as homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary. With the use of historic records, Muscat gives the reader an idea of how the initial construction process would have been carried out. To the local farming communities of the time suffering from various religious attacks, this was a safe place to focus their faith and devotion. Which, according to Muscat's writing, has grown immensely over the centuries from votive prayers lining the walls to spiritual sightings, and popular legends. All of which are documented in the sanctuary archives to date. Includes Images.