Plizio Visual Lab

Christ the King Basilica

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The Basilica of Christ the King in Paola is one of the largest and most imposing churches in Malta, its massive dome and twin bell towers dominating the region's skyline. Construction began in 1923 under the direction of architect Guze Damato and spanned several decades, with the building officially becoming a parish church in 1959. The architectural style is a late example of Maltese neoclassicism, characterized by its monumental scale and refined proportions. The interior is renowned for its vast volume and intricate marble work, making it one of the most spacious religious buildings on the island. In 2020, the church was elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica by Pope Francis, a testament to its significant role in the island's religious life. The basilica serves as a major focal point for the community of Paola, especially during the annual feast in July. Its construction reflects the growth and importance of Paola as a major industrial and commercial hub in the south of Malta during the 20th century.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Parish Church of Christ the King · Church of Saint Ubaldeska · Public Garden
Nearby: Tigné Point (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

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Visiting

Christ the King Basilica is one of the largest churches in Malta and is usually open to visitors. You can see the magnificent interior and attend services.

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Typical hours

The basilica is usually open daily late morning and afternoon. As with most Maltese churches, exact hours follow the service schedule.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed, but avoid flash during mass. The dome and side altars offer especially photogenic details.

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Time needed

A visit to the basilica takes about 30-45 minutes. If you climb the dome or examine the side chapels, allow one hour.

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Combine with

The basilica is in Paola, near the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and Ta’ Pinu Church. Combine your visit with exploration of the underground temple complex.

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Getting there

Paola is easily reached by bus from Valletta (routes 81, 82, 83) or by car. The bus stop is a few minutes' walk from the basilica.

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Insider tip

Visit the basilica on Saturday evening to fully experience the vigil mass. Tickets for the Hypogeum need to be booked well in advance.

Geography

Coordinates

35.87170, 14.50830

Facts

The foundation stone of the church was laid in 1923.
The building was designed by the prolific architect Guze Damato.
It was elevated to the rank of Minor Basilica in April 2020.
The church is among the largest in Malta by interior volume.
It became the primary parish church for Paola in 1959.
The annual feast of Christ the King is a major event in the local calendar.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum<1 km · SWExplore →

Cospicua (Bormla)1 km · NEExplore →

Marsa Horse Racing Track2 km · WExplore →

Hompesch Arch2 km · EExplore →

Luqa2 km · SWExplore →

Il-Għaxaq Ridge2 km · SEExplore →

Gudja3 km · SExplore →

Pietà3 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Christ the King Basilica (10)

Parish Church of Christ the King

Parish church in Paola, Malta, dedicated to Christ the King.

Church of Saint Ubaldeska

A church in Paola, Malta, named after Saint Ubaldeska.

Public Garden

A public garden in Paola, Malta, offering green space for relaxation.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum🏛 museum

Neolithic subterranean structure in Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

🌐 heritagemalta.org🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00💶

Ħal Tarxien Temples

Archaeological complex in Tarxien, Malta, dating from the Neolithic period.

Madonna tar-Rużarju

A wayside shrine in Paola, Malta, dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary.

Mariam Al-Batool Mosque

Mosque in Paola, Malta, serving the local Muslim community.

Tempji ta' Kordin

Temples in Malta, remains of prehistoric megalithic structures.

Teatru Malta Rehearsal Room

Rehearsal space for Teatru Malta in Paola, used for theatre productions.

Trudy Gera Art Studio

Art studio in Paola, Malta, where artist Trudy Gera works.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How large is the Christ the King Basilica in Paola?

It is one of the largest churches in Malta and dominates the skyline of Paola.

Can the bell towers be visited?

Access is usually restricted, but guided tours are sometimes organized on special occasions.

When was the church built?

Construction began in 1923 and took several decades to be fully completed.

What is the most important artwork in the basilica?

The monumental statue of Christ the King above the main altar is very impressive.

Are there bus connections to the church?

Yes, many buses stop right at the Paola main square, just a few steps from the basilica.

Christ the King Basilica: where is it located?

Christ the King Basilica is located in Malta.

Christ the King Basilica: what is there to see?

Highlights include Parish Church of Christ the King, Church of Saint Ubaldeska, Public Garden.

Christ the King Basilica: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Christ the King Basilica: why is it worth visiting?

The Basilica of Christ the King in Paola is one of the largest and most imposing churches in Malta, its massive dome and twin bell towers dominating the region's skyline.

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