Birkirkara essentials

Birkirkara, one of Malta's oldest and largest towns, showcases a blend of Baroque grandeur and industrial history. This selection features the 18th-century St. Helen's Basilica, famous for its ornate facade and massive bells, alongside the 17th-century Wignacourt Aqueduct and Arch. Visitors can explore the remains of the national railway at the old station, view contemporary art within an 18th-century windmill at the Gabriel Caruana Foundation, and visit historic parish churches reflecting the town's religious heritage.

Birkirkara Essentials — Map

A

Parish Church of Saint Helen

This 18th-century Baroque basilica is renowned for its elaborate facade and the largest bell in Malta. It houses a titular statue carved by Vincenzo Felici in 1737 and features impressive ceiling frescoes and marble work.

B

Wignacourt Arch

A 2015 reconstruction of the original 17th-century Fleur-de-Lys Gate. It was originally built as part of the Wignacourt Aqueduct system to commemorate the arrival of water from Dingli to Valletta.

JialiangGao / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Wignacourt Aqueduct

The Wignacourt Aqueduct is a 17th-century aqueduct in Malta, which was built by the Order of Saint John to carry water from springs in…

D

Saint Mary's Parish Church

Known locally as the "Old Church," this 17th-century Renaissance structure was designed by Vittorio Cassar. After suffering a roof collapse in the 19th century, it underwent extensive restoration to preserve its historic masonry.

E

Birkirkara Old Train Station

Set within a public garden, this site preserves the original station building and a restored carriage from the Malta Railway, which operated between 1883 and 1931. It serves as a rare remnant of the island's colonial-era transport system.

F

Gabriel Caruana Foundation

Housed in an 18th-century windmill known as Il-Mitħna tal-Għaqba, this center promotes contemporary art. It features works by Maltese artist Gabriel Caruana and hosts rotating exhibitions within the historic structure.

G

Baby Jesus Museum

This museum displays an extensive collection of Christ Child statues, known as "Bambini," crafted from various materials. The exhibits reflect traditional Maltese devotional art and religious customs.

H

Is-Salib Rajt ma Rajtx

A historic stone cross monument located on the town's boundary. Its name, which translates to "The Cross I Saw and Didn't See," refers to its specific positioning along an old transit route.

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