Basilica of St Dominic
Malta·Valletta
The Basilica of St Dominic, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Safe Haven and St Dominic, is a significant parish church in Valletta, Malta. Administered by the Dominican Order, its construction began in 1571, and it was later elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica in 1816, underscoring its religious importance in the city.
Key Facts
- ›Construction began on April 19, 1571, on land granted by Grand Master Pierre de Monte.
- ›The parish was established on July 2, 1571, by Pope Pius V.
- ›It was originally dedicated to our Lady of Safe Haven, honoring sailors' safe returns.
- ›The original church was closed in 1780 due to structural damage from earthquakes and storms.
- ›A new church was built on the same site and opened on May 15, 1815.
- ›It was elevated to Minor Basilica status on March 25, 1816, and consecrated on October 15, 1889.
Saint Dominic, Our Lady of Safe Haven
Dominican Order
Girolamo Cassar
About Basilica of St Dominic
The Basilica of St Dominic, also known by its Maltese name Il-Bażilika ta' San Duminku, and as the Basilica of Our Lady of Safe Haven and St Dominic, is a prominent parish church located in Valletta, Malta. It is administered by the Dominican Order, whose convent is situated directly behind the church.
History and Construction
The foundation of the Basilica of St Dominic is rooted in the mid-16th century. The land on which the church and convent stand was granted to the Dominican Order by Grand Master Pierre de Monte. Girolamo Cassar was tasked with creating the architectural plans. The construction commenced with the laying of the first stone on April 19, 1571. Shortly thereafter, on July 2, 1571, the parish was officially established by a decree from Pope Pius V, who is recognized as a benefactor of Valletta's construction.
The initial dedication to Our Lady of Safe Haven stemmed from the devotion of sailors. Before the construction of the large church, a smaller chapel existed where Dominicans ministered to sailors who came to give thanks to the Mother of God for their safe return to harbor after perilous sea voyages. At its establishment, the parish of St Dominic was designated as the principal parish church of Valletta.
Rebuilding and Elevation to Basilica
The original church faced structural challenges. On July 24, 1780, it was closed and declared unsafe due to damage sustained from earthquakes and severe storms. Approximately 25 years after its closure, a new church was erected on the same site. This new edifice was opened and blessed on May 15, 1815. The church's significance was further recognized when it was elevated to the dignity of a Minor Basilica on March 25, 1816. The final consecration of the basilica took place on October 15, 1889, performed by Archbishop Pietro Pace.
The Basilica of St Dominic is recognized for its cultural and historical value, being listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands. Despite its historical importance, the church has experienced incidents, such as the theft of its wooden altar candle holders, which were later found for sale online.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Basilica of St Dominic in Valletta?
The Basilica of St Dominic is one of Valletta, Malta's three parish churches, administered by the Dominican Order. It is also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Safe Haven and St Dominic.
When was the Basilica of St Dominic first built?
The first stone for the original church was laid on April 19, 1571. The land was granted by Grand Master Pierre de Monte, and the plans were drawn up by Girolamo Cassar.
Why is it called Our Lady of Safe Haven?
The church was dedicated to Our Lady of Safe Haven to commemorate the many sailors who offered thanks to the Mother of God in a previous chapel for their safe return from dangerous sea voyages.
Has the basilica undergone significant rebuilding?
Yes, the original church was closed in 1780 due to damage from earthquakes and storms. A new church was constructed on the same site and opened in 1815.
What is the status of the Basilica of St Dominic?
The Basilica of St Dominic is an active parish church and was consecrated in 1889. It is listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands.
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