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St. Gregory's Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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St. Gregory's Church in Żejtun, also known as the 'Old Parish Church of St. Catherine', is one of the oldest and most historically layered religious sites in Malta. Its foundations date back to the 15th century, and it has undergone numerous modifications that reflect the transition from Late Gothic to Renaissance styles. Due to its location near the coast, the church was fortified with thick walls to protect the local population from frequent corsair raids. In 1969, hidden secret passages were discovered within its walls, containing human remains and potentially serving as lookout posts during pirate attacks. The church is the focal point of the famous St. Gregory’s procession, a tradition that started in 1543 as a national vow of thanksgiving. As the former main parish for the entire southeastern region, St. Gregory's remains a symbol of medieval Maltese heritage and resilience. Its austere exterior and rich historical secrets make it a unique destination for those exploring Malta's pre-Knights ecclesiastical history.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Saint Gregory's Church · Żejtun Roman Villa · Il-Batterija ta' Misrah Strejnu
Nearby: Cospicua (Bormla) (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

The church is generally open to visitors during the day, as it remains an active parish. You can enter and explore the interior unless a service is taking place.

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Typical hours

Typical opening hours are from early morning after the first mass until late afternoon. On Sundays and public holidays access may be limited.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash to preserve the religious artworks. Exterior shots are always welcome and particularly rewarding in sunshine.

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Time needed

A visit typically takes 30 minutes to one hour, depending on your interest in history and architecture. Allow extra time to study the frescos and altars in detail.

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Combine with

The church is located in the heart of Żejtun, home to several other historic buildings and palazzos. A walk through the village's narrow streets makes a first-rate combination.

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Getting there

By bus from Valletta, take route 80 or 82 to Żejtun; the journey takes about 30 minutes. The church is a short walk from the bus stop.

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Insider tip

Plan your visit during the feast of San Girgor in September for a lively local atmosphere. Alternatively, come early in the morning for peaceful solitude.

Geography

Coordinates

35.85250, 14.54080

Facts

The current structure dates back to various phases starting in the 15th century.
Secret wall passages containing human bones were discovered in 1969.
The annual St. Gregory's procession has been held since 1543.
The church served as a fortified refuge during Ottoman and pirate raids.
It was the primary parish church for the region until the late 17th century.
Contains a unique collection of ex-voto paintings and historic artifacts.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

St. Catherine's Parish Church<1 km · NWExplore →

Marsaxlokk Playground1 km · SExplore →

St. Thomas Bay2 km · EExplore →

Għaxaq Parish Church2 km · WExplore →

Għar Dalam Cave2 km · SWExplore →

Hompesch Arch2 km · NWExplore →

Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park3 km · SEExplore →

Tarxien3 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town St. Gregory's Church (10)

Saint Gregory's Church

Church in Żejtun, Malta, dedicated to Saint Gregory.

Żejtun Roman Villa

Archaeological site of a Roman villa in Żejtun, Malta.

Il-Batterija ta' Misrah Strejnu

Coastal battery in Żejtun, Malta, part of the historic fortifications.

Saint Catherine's

Church in Żejtun, Malta, dedicated to Saint Catherine.

Tempju Megalitiku ta' Ħal Ġinwi

Prehistoric megalithic temple in Żejtun, Malta.

Christ Saviour Chapel

Chapel in Żejtun, Malta, dedicated to Christ the Saviour.

Aedis Danielis🏰 castle

Palace of the Testaferrata Bonniċi family, facade has a niche with a stone statue of the Prophet Daniel.

Muxrabija

Traditional Maltese enclosed balcony in Żejtun, made of carved stone.

Tas-Silġ

Megalithic site later used as a Punic temple and a Christian basilica in Żejtun, Malta.

Parish Church of the Madonna of Pompei

Church building in Marsaxlokk, Malta, dedicated to Our Lady of Pompei.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the special feature of St. Gregory's Church?

It is one of Malta's oldest churches, famous for the secret passages within its walls.

Why are there secret passages in the church?

It is believed they served as lookouts against pirate raids.

When was St. Gregory's Church built?

The current structure dates from the 15th century and has a fortress-like character.

Is there an annual pilgrimage held there?

Yes, on the Wednesday after Easter, a traditional pilgrimage to the church is held.

Where is the church located in Zejtun?

It is located on the outskirts of Zejtun, on the road to Marsaxlokk.

St. Gregory's Church: where is it located?

St. Gregory's Church is located in Malta.

St. Gregory's Church: what is there to see?

Highlights include Saint Gregory's Church, Żejtun Roman Villa, Il-Batterija ta' Misrah Strejnu.

St. Gregory's Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

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