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St. Publius Parish Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The Parish Church of St. Publius in Floriana is one of Malta's most significant Neo-Classical religious structures, dedicated to the island's first bishop. The foundation stone was laid in 1733 during the reign of Grand Master Vilhena, though construction continued for several decades. The church is particularly noted for its imposing twin-tower facade that overlooks the vast Granaries square, a site for major national and religious gatherings. During World War II, the building suffered severe damage from an air raid in 1942, but it was faithfully restored in the post-war years. Inside, the church houses precious artworks, including altarpieces by the renowned Maltese painter Giuseppe Calì. The annual feast in honor of St. Publius is one of the most colorful in Malta, traditionally marking the start of the summer village feast season across the islands. The church stands not only as a religious hub but also as a symbol of the pride and resilience of the Floriana community.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Catholic Institute · Saint Publius Parish Church · Malta Memorial
Nearby: Swieqi (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 parish church is generally open during the day as it is actively used. The richly decorated interior is accessible when masses are not taking place.

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Typical hours

The church typically opens in the morning for early mass and closes in the late afternoon. On Sundays opening hours are usually extended.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash to protect the artworks. The ceiling frescoes and gold decorations are especially photogenic.

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Time needed

A visit lasts about 30 to 45 minutes to admire the main altars and side chapels. Allow more time for a detailed look at the ornaments.

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Combine with

The church is in Floriana, just outside the gates of Valletta. A stroll through the botanical Argotti Gardens makes a good combination.

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Getting there

By bus from Valletta, Floriana is just a few minutes away; routes 1-3 go directly. The church is a 5-minute walk from the Floriana bus stop.

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Insider tip

Visit the church in the morning when light through the windows makes the interior glow. The nearby Magro Pastizzeria serves excellent Maltese fare.

Geography

Coordinates

35.89140, 14.50830

Facts

Construction began in 1733, but the formal consecration took place only on March 28, 1792.
St. Publius is said to have received St. Paul after his shipwreck in 60 AD.
On April 28, 1942, a German bomb destroyed the dome and parts of the nave.
The statue of St. Publius inside the church was carved in 1811 by Vincenzo Dimech.
The church square houses underground silos (Granaries) dating from the Knights' era.
Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Masses on the square in front of the church.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Valletta Waterfront<1 km · NEExplore →

Medserv plc Base1 km · SWExplore →

Pietà1 km · WExplore →

Manoel Island2 km · NWExplore →

Fort Ricasoli2 km · NEExplore →

St. Helen's Gate2 km · SEExplore →

Tarxien3 km · SExplore →

Wied Ghollieqa Nature Reserve3 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

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

Sights in the town St. Publius Parish Church (10)

Catholic Institute

Theatre in Floriana, Malta, used for cultural events.

Saint Publius Parish Church

Church in Floriana, Malta, dedicated to Saint Publius.

Malta Memorial

World War II memorial in Malta commemorating British Commonwealth aircrews.

Independence Monument

Monument in Floriana, Malta, commemorating independence.

Convent Crypt

Crypt in Floriana, Malta, located beneath a convent.

Knisja tas-Sarria

Church in Floriana, Malta, founded by the Navarrese knight Martín de Sarria.

Barrakka Lift

Elevator in Valletta, Malta, connecting the city to the harbour.

Floriana Old Train Station

Former railway station in Floriana, Malta, now a historic building.

Spazju Kreattiv

Gallery in Valletta, Malta, for contemporary art and culture.

Saint James Cavalier🏛 museum

16th century fortification in Valletta, Malta, now a museum.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is St. Publius Church located?

It is located on the large square (Granaries) in Floriana, just before the entrance to Valletta.

Who was Saint Publius?

He is considered the first Bishop of Malta and welcomed Saint Paul the Apostle after his shipwreck.

What are the 'Granaries' in front of the church?

They are underground grain silos from the Knights' period, recognizable by the stone lids on the square.

When is the Floriana parish feast?

The feast of Saint Publius is celebrated on the second Sunday after Easter.

Can the church be visited inside?

Yes, the church is usually open for visitors in the morning and late afternoon.

St. Publius Parish Church: where is it located?

St. Publius Parish Church is located in Malta.

St. Publius Parish Church: what is there to see?

Highlights include Catholic Institute, Saint Publius Parish Church, Malta Memorial.

St. Publius Parish Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

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