Exploring Mosta and Its Underground Bunkers
If you’re looking to explore Malta beyond the usual tourist spots, Mosta is a must-visit. This town offers a mix of history, architecture, and a few surprises underground. Here’s your go-to guide for Exploring Mosta and Its Underground Bunkers:
Mosta Dome (Rotunda of Mosta)
Your first stop has to be the Mosta Dome, one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. From the outside, it’s impressive, but stepping inside is something else entirely. It is a sunning piece of architecture.
Make sure you go to the 2nd floor to get an aerial view of the interior.
The interior is spacious and beautifully decorated, with paintings that tell the story of the town’s religious history.
It is a lovely place to sit, enjoy a moment of silence, and be in the moment.
The altar is another lovely space.
Before you leave, go to the rooftop to get a beautiful view of the town.
The main attraction here is the miracle story of 1942, when a bomb pierced the dome during WWII but didn’t explode, saving hundreds of people gathered for Mass. You can even see a replica of the bomb in the church’s sacristy!
Mosta World War II Shelters
Right next to the dome are the Mosta WWII shelters, a hidden gem not many tourists know about. These underground bunkers were dug out to protect the locals during air raids. Walking through these narrow tunnels gives you a real sense of what it was like to live through those times—it’s a sobering but fascinating experience.
You can see peeks of how they would store tools from their everyday lives.
And it was especially chilling to see where they would sleep.
Travel Tips
Timing is Everything: Mosta Dome opens early, around 9 AM, and it’s best to get there in the morning to avoid crowds. The WWII shelters have more limited hours, usually opening around mid-morning, so check the schedule before you go.
Dress Code: Remember, the Mosta Dome is a place of worship, so dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and if you forget, don’t worry—they usually have wraps available at the entrance. I had a tank top and they loaned me a wrap.
Take the Guided Tour: At the WWII shelters, consider taking a guided tour. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing personal stories and historical details you might not catch otherwise. It’s a small extra cost, but totally worth it.
Plan for Some Downtime: Mosta is more than just the dome and the shelters. The town itself has a relaxed vibe, with plenty of cafes and shops. Take some time to wander the streets, grab a coffee, and watch the world go by.
Getting There: Mosta is easy to reach by bus from Valletta or Sliema, with a travel time of about 30 minutes. The bus stops right near the dome, so it’s super convenient.
Where to Eat: After all that exploring, you’re going to need a snack! Try one of the local bakeries for some fresh pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas). If you’re up for a meal, there are several great restaurants in town serving up traditional Maltese dishes.
