I was able to continue with my tradition of trying to visit a cemetery in each place I travel. Visiting two peaceful cemeteries in Malta was not what I expected, but perhaps the ones I chose were too modern.
Church of All Souls
The reason for choosing both of these cemeteries was their proximity to other places I was visiting. Church of All Souls is near the Tarxien Temples, hence why I chose it.
The church itself is large and has a solid presence on the site. Made fairly recently, it has really beautiful mid century modern architecture, very 1970’s. I wanted to see inside to have a look at that magnificent stained glass wall, but was unable to find an unlocked door.
The cemetery was much newer than I had anticipated, but very beautiful and serene. Most of the headstones were adorned with fresh flowers and photographs of the lost. I was the only visitor, and was at peace in this place.
St. Mary’s Cemetery
The second cemetery I had the opportunity to visit was on the Island of Gozo. St. Mary’s was a beautiful place. It was on route to my trek through the countryside to visit Ggantija.
Again, I was the only visitor and the tranquility here was just lovely. I ambled through the rows, admiring the simplicity of this resting place. Both sites were impeccably clean and the bright limestone created a feeling of warmth and belonging.
This was another cemetery that did not seem to have a lot of history. Most of the headstones were newer, certainly within the last century.
Perhaps when I am next in Malta, I will seek out an older cemetery. The Ta’ Braxia one would be just what I’m looking for. There certainly is no shortage of things to see and do here. Malta is an incredible country with a vast history, there are resting areas with deep history, including military ones.
