Revealing the Dark Secrets: Legends and Myths of Malta
Prepare for a spine-chilling adventure as we explore the haunting legends and myths of Malta. With a 7,000-year history, this enigmatic island has witnessed eerie encounters that continue to captivate. Join us as we delve into Malta’s dark and mysterious legends.
St. Paul’s Shipwreck: A Divine Intervention
Our journey begins on St. Paul’s islands, known locally as “Il-Gżejjer ta’ San Pawl”. In 60 AD, as Paul the Apostle sailed toward Rome, a violent storm wrecked his ship on the Maltese coast. According to legend, this dramatic event marked Paul’s arrival and introduced Christianity to Malta, consequently forever altering the island’s spiritual landscape.
St. Paul and The Viper: A Miraculous Encounter
Continuing the tale of St. Paul, we dive into another extraordinary legend. The Book of Acts describes how a venomous snake bit Paul while he gathered firewood. The locals watched in anticipation, expecting the worst, but Paul remained unharmed. This miraculous event led them to believe Paul was divine, perhaps protected by a higher power. Was the snake truly deadly, or did Paul’s survival reveal something greater? The mystery endures.
Ogygia in Homer’s Odyssey: A Mythical Odyssey
Next, we step into ancient mythology on Gozo, believed to be the legendary Ogygia from Homer’s The Odyssey. Here, Odysseus, shipwrecked and weary, faced captivity by the nymph Calypso for seven long years. Legend claims that the Calypso Cave, overlooking Ramla beach, was where Odysseus struggled between the promise of immortality and his longing to return home.
Sant Angelo in Birgu: A Castle of Haunting Legends
The medieval castle of St Angelo in Birgu, once called Castrum Maris (Castle by the Sea), conceals a dark past. During the Great Siege of 1565, Ottoman soldiers suffered a gruesome fate when defenders reportedly used their severed heads as cannonballs (Although it doesn’t seem scientifically possible that heads would arrive at their intended target) . Today, locals believe the castle is haunted by these spirits and a mysterious Grey Lady. This spectral figure, a tragic mistress of the Di Nava family, allegedly met her end in the dreaded dungeon known as It-Toqba (The Hole). While some assert that her spirit has been exorcised, others still dread encounters with the headless Ottomans.
Sant Marija Ta-Virtu: A Chapel of the Macabre
Our journey ends at the eerie chapel of Sant Marija Ta-Virtu in Rabat, which sits perched in the tranquil surroundings of Tal-Virtu. Beneath its sacred grounds, we find ancient tombs, catacombs, and medieval crypts. According to rumors, the chapel is haunted by a ghostly priest who conducts mass for an unseen congregation. Adding to the chilling atmosphere, the chapel reportedly suffered desecration by Satanists. Consequently, carved symbols, inverted crosses, and black-painted altars contribute significantly to its macabre reputation.
Embark on a Journey Through Malta’s Hidden Past
If these haunting legends and myths of Malta have sparked your curiosity, then consider joining one of our guided tours. Through these tours, you will discover even more legends, myths, and secrets of this extraordinary island. Moreover, we will guide you through the shadows of Malta’s history, where each step reveals a story that promises to leave you breathless. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the dark heart of Malta, where history and myth seamlessly intertwine.
Live Forgotten Stories: Where HIStory Becomes MYStory
Are you tired of the typical tourist traps and eager to uncover Malta’s rich history? Look no further! Our immersive and interactive guided experiences will transport you back in time, and make Malta’s past your playground.
We bring Malta’s colourful past to life through captivating storytelling and authentic period attire. We portray real-life characters from our history. As you explore hidden alleyways and baroque landmarks, the line between observer and participant will blur. This will allow you to truly “Live Your Holiday’s Past.”
If you’re ready to uncover the soul of our island and its people, don’t miss out on one of our themed guided tours. CLICK HERE to begin your journey into Malta’s extraordinary history!
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