St. Scholastica's Monastery
The Monastery of St. Scholastica in Birgu, Malta, is home to a Benedictine order established in 1496. Originally situated in Mdina, the monastery relocated to Birgu in 1604, eventually moving to its current larger premises, the former Sacra Infermeria, in 1652. The attached church, dedicated to St. Anne, was built between 1679 and 1680, designed by Lorenzo Gafà.
Key Facts
- ›Founded by Bishop Jaime Valgernera in 1496.
- ›Originally established in Mdina, then moved to Birgu in 1604.
- ›Current location is the former Sacra Infermeria, occupied since 1652.
- ›The attached church of St. Anne was designed by Lorenzo Gafà, with construction starting in 1679.
- ›The order temporarily relocated to Mdina during World War II and French rule.
- ›Listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands.
Church of St. Anne, Former Sacra Infermeria
Bishop Jaime Valgernera, Lorenzo Gafà, Bishop JeróNimo De Molina, Lady Aloisietta Dorel Pecos
Relocation To Birgu In 1604, Move To Sacra Infermeria In 1652, Construction of St. Anne's Church, Relocation To Mdina During French Rule, Relocation To Mdina During World War Ii
About St. Scholastica's Monastery
Monastery of St. Scholastica
The Monastery of St. Scholastica is a significant Benedictine monastic institution located in Birgu, Malta. The order of nuns who reside there traces its establishment back to 1496, founded by Bishop Jaime Valgernera, a devout follower of St Scholastica. Initially situated in the historic city of Mdina, the monastery underwent several relocations to accommodate its growing community and changing historical circumstances.
History and Development
In 1604, the Benedictine nuns moved to Birgu, establishing a monastery within the Magisterial Palace. By 1652, the order had expanded to the extent that larger premises were required. They relocated to the former Sacra Infermeria, a substantial hospital complex originally established by the Order of St John of Jerusalem in 1532. This site has remained the monastery's home to the present day.
The church attached to the monastery, dedicated to St. Anne, is a notable addition to the complex. Its construction was made possible through the benefaction of Lady Aloisietta Dorel Pecos, commencing in 1679. The building was designed by the renowned Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà, with the first stone laid by Bishop Jerónimo de Molina. The church was blessed in 1680 and formally consecrated in 1787. Further architectural enhancements included the addition of a belfry in 1694 and a presbytery in 1748.
Resilience Through Adversity
The Monastery of St. Scholastica has demonstrated resilience throughout periods of turmoil. During the French occupation of Malta, the community temporarily relocated to Mdina between 1798 and 1800. Similarly, during the heavy bombing of World War II, the nuns sought refuge once again in Mdina. These displacements highlight the monastery's enduring presence and its ability to adapt to challenging historical events.
Today, the Monastery and its attached church are recognized for their cultural and historical importance, being listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands. The monastery continues to be an active community, preserving its Benedictine traditions within the historic setting of Birgu.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the order of Benedictine nuns established?
The order of Benedictine nuns who occupy the monastery was established in 1496. This was done by Bishop Jaime Valgernera, who was a devotee of St Scholastica.
Where was the Monastery of St. Scholastica originally located?
The monastery was originally located in Mdina, Malta. It was later moved to Birgu in 1604.
When did the monastery move to its current location?
The monastery moved to its current premises, the former Sacra Infermeria, in 1652. This move was necessitated by the growing size of the order.
Who designed the church attached to the monastery?
The church attached to the monastery, dedicated to St. Anne, was designed by Lorenzo Gafà. Construction began in 1679.
Has the monastery ever relocated due to conflicts or political changes?
Yes, the order relocated to Mdina between 1798 and 1800 due to French rule. They also relocated to Mdina during the Second World War because of heavy bombing.
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