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St. Mary Magdalene Chapel

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Historical site
—°10
St. Mary Magdalene Chapel (Malta)

Weather…

The Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene stands in one of Malta's most dramatic locations, perched on the edge of the Dingli Cliffs at approximately 250 meters above sea level. The present structure was built in 1646 on the site of an older 15th-century chapel that had fallen into disrepair. Its architecture is a prime example of a simple Maltese rural chapel, featuring a rectangular box-like shape and a modest bell-cot above the entrance. An inscription over the doorway confirms the reconstruction date and its dedication to Mary Magdalene. Historically, the chapel served as a vital navigational landmark for mariners and a spiritual hub for the local farming community on the high plateau. Today, it is best known for providing wide-open views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islet of Filfla, especially during sunset. The chapel remains an iconic symbol of the intersection between Malta's deep-rooted Catholic faith and its rugged coastal geography.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The tiny chapel sits on the cliffs and is often locked. Entry inside is only possible during services or special occasions.
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Typical hours
Regular services are infrequent, so visiting the interior is unpredictable. The exterior grounds are accessible at any time.
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Photography
Exterior photos are remarkable as the chapel sits dramatically over the sea. Inside, photography is possible with the door open, but no flash.
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Time needed
Allow at least 15 to 20 minutes to explore the surroundings, enjoy the view and take photos. The time on the cliffs can be extended depending on weather.
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Combine with
The chapel is located at the Dingli Cliffs, one of Malta's most panoramic viewpoints. A walk along the coast westwards gives spectacular panoramas.
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Getting there
By bus from Valletta, take line 44 to the Dingli stop; the journey takes about 45 minutes. From there it is a 30-minute walk to the chapel.
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Insider tip
Come early in the morning to enjoy the light on the cliffs and the calm sea. Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the cliff edge is uneven.

Geography

Coordinates
35.85140, 14.38330

Facts

  • Located 250 meters above sea level on Dingli Cliffs
  • The current chapel was completed in 1646
  • Replaced a documented 15th-century structure
  • Historically used as a landmark for sailors
  • Simple cuboid design typical of rural Malta
  • Overlooks the uninhabited islet of Filfla

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dingli CliffsDingli Cliffs<1 km · WExplore →
Olive Oil Tasting MaltaOlive Oil Tasting Malta2 km · EExplore →
Mtaħleb ValleyMtaħleb Valley3 km · NExplore →
Buskett GardensBuskett Gardens3 km · EExplore →
Rabat, MaltaRabat, Malta4 km · NEExplore →
Ghar LapsiGhar Lapsi5 km · SEExplore →
Bahrija FarmsBahrija Farms5 km · NWExplore →
Limestone HeritageLimestone Heritage5 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town St. Mary Magdalene Chapel (10)

Saint Mary Magdalene Chapel

Chapel in Dingli, Malta, dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene.

Dingli Cliffs

High cliffs on Malta's west coast.

Għar il-Kbir

Large cave near Dingli, Malta.

🕒 24/7

Misraħ Għar il-Kbir

Collection of cart ruts in Dingli, Malta.

Cart Ruts

Collection of cart ruts in Dingli, Malta.

Ta' Dmejrek

Highest point of Malta.

Bronze age settlement

Bronze age settlement remains near Dingli.

Dingli Cliffs Viewpoint

Viewpoint on the Dingli Cliffs.

Verdala Palace🏰 castle

Palace in Buskett Gardens, Malta.

Tax-Xierfa Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Dingli, Malta.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is St. Mary Magdalene Chapel located?
It stands spectacularly on the edge of the Dingli Cliffs.
Can you visit the inside of the chapel?
It is mostly closed but opens occasionally for mass or special occasions.
When was it built?
The current chapel dates back to 1646.
Is it worth going for the view?
Absolutely, it is one of the best spots for sunset in Malta.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there are parking spots right along the road by the chapel.
St. Mary Magdalene Chapel: where is it located?
St. Mary Magdalene Chapel is located in Malta.
St. Mary Magdalene Chapel: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Mary Magdalene Chapel, Dingli Cliffs, Għar il-Kbir.
St. Mary Magdalene Chapel: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
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Nature

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The highest point in Malta, offering breathtaking views of the open sea.
🗺️
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