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Żabbar Sanctuary Museum
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Landmark
The Żabbar Sanctuary Museum is located adjacent to the Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces in Żabbar and is one of Malta's most significant ecclesiastical history museums. Founded in 1954, it houses an impressive collection that extends far beyond purely religious exhibits. Most notably, it features the world's second-largest collection of maritime ex-voto paintings, donated by sailors as thanks for being saved from perils at sea. The museum also displays personal belongings of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John, including the magnificent ceremonial carriage of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt. Other sections are dedicated to the local history of Żabbar, World War II, and sacred art from the 17th and 18th centuries. The museum building's architecture blends harmoniously into the baroque ensemble of the town center. Through careful curation, the museum provides deep insights into folk piety and the close connection between the Maltese people, the sea, and the Order of St. John.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Sala Notre Dame · Mużew tas-Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Grazzja · Bieb is-Sultan
- Nearby: Luqa (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 65 | 51 | 33 | 17 | 11 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 82 | 95 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Żabbar Sanctuary Museum is located right next to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces and is usually open at certain times. Access is via the church square, and the museum displays religious art and artifacts.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open on weekday mornings, sometimes also in the afternoon. It is advisable to check current hours on site or on the local council website.
Photography
Photography in the museum is usually allowed without flash. The exhibits, including historic vestments and silverware, offer rewarding subjects for detailed close-ups.
Time needed
A museum visit usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. If you also visit the adjacent church and take a stroll through Żabbar, allow about 1.5 hours.
Combine with
Combine the museum visit with nearby Fort Rinella or the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. The historic city of Vittoriosa with its fortifications is also not far.
Getting there
The museum is in the centre of Żabbar and reachable by bus (routes 81, 82, 83) from Valletta. Parking is available in the church square or on surrounding streets.
Insider tip
Ask at the ticket desk if there is a guided tour to learn more about the exhibits' history. The museum is small but delightful - take time for the detailed silver votive offerings.
Geography
Facts
- Houses the world's second-largest maritime ex-voto collection
- Displays the ceremonial carriage of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt
- The museum was officially opened in the year 1954
- Contains remains of an aircraft that crashed during World War II
- Features a significant collection of medals and coins from the Order
- Built on two floors right next to the town's baroque parish church
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Żabbar Sanctuary Museum (10)
Forte Verdala
Fort in Malta, near Cottonera.
Fort Verdala
Fort in Cospicua, Malta.
Estate agent Dhalia
Real estate agency in Żabbar, Malta.
Parish Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Church in Fgura, Malta, dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
St. Peter's Battery
Fortified battery in Malta, from the 19th century.
Fort San Salvatore
Retrenched fort in Birgu, Malta.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Żabbar Sanctuary Museum display?
It displays religious artifacts, ex-voto paintings, and historical carriages.
Where exactly is the museum located?
Right next to the Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces in Żabbar.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open in the mornings from 09:00 to 12:00.
Is there information about the Knights of St. John?
Yes, many exhibits are closely related to the era of the Knights of St. John.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Access is limited as it is housed in an older building.
Żabbar Sanctuary Museum: where is it located?
Żabbar Sanctuary Museum is located in Malta.
Żabbar Sanctuary Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sala Notre Dame, Mużew tas-Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Grazzja, Bieb is-Sultan.
Żabbar Sanctuary Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Żabbar Sanctuary Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Żabbar Sanctuary Museum is located adjacent to the Parish Church of Our Lady of Graces in Żabbar and is one of Malta's most significant ecclesiastical history museums.
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