The Immaculate Conception Niche – Triq il-Kunċizzjoni, Cospicua

In a quiet corner of Triq il-Kunċizzjoni stands an old niche that immediately captures the eye. Built around 1788 in the Baroque style, it was already standing by the early nineteenth century. This is confirmed by a decree issued in 1801, when Bishop Vincenzo Labini granted 40 days of indulgences to anyone who recited the Salve Regina before the image — 53 years before Pope Pius IX proclaimed the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception.

The statue seen today is not the original. An inscription on the pedestal records that the niche underwent a major restoration on 1 February 1929. That year, Cospicua was commemorating the 75th anniversary of the dogma Ineffabilis Deus (1854), and the residents of the area took the opportunity to restore this cherished shrine. The restoration was carried out by Salvu Darmanin, who also designed the project, assisted by Ċikku Zahra and Pawlu Aquilina. The large statue of the Immaculate Conception is regarded as one of the finest in Malta, particularly for the exquisite workmanship of the drapery and folds of the Madonna’s robes.

The Blessed Virgin is depicted crushing the head of a serpent beneath her feet, a powerful symbol of her victory over evil. Although many pass by this corner every day, the niche preserves a rich story of faith, community devotion, and artistic craftsmanship that continues to inspire admiration.

Our Lady of Sorrows in Oratory Street, Cospicua

At the corner of Triq l-Oratorju (Oratory Street) in Bormla stands an ancient statue of Our Lady of Sorrows (id-Duluri), a cherished landmark of devotion for the people of the city. A stone plaque records that in 1759, Bishop Bartolomeo Rull granted 40 days of indulgences to anyone who recited an Ave Maria before this sacred image. The present statue was placed here in 1897, replacing an older one by the sculptor Gaetano Fabri, following a decision by the Confraternity of the Crucifix.

On the pedestal, beneath a heart pierced by a sword, are the Latin words:

“Attendite universi populi et videte dolorem meum”.                     (“Look towards me, all peoples, and see my sorrow.”)

The statue stands beside the Oratory of the Holy Crucifix in one of Bormla’s most picturesque streets. Triq l-Oratorju runs uphill along the left side of the parish church from Triq il-Pellegrinaġġ, passing the Oratory, historic auberges, and a closely packed row of traditional Maltese houses. Colourful timber balconies, carved stone details, and old wooden doors give the street its unique charm and character. Although the climb is steep, the walk offers a glimpse into Bormla’s rich history, architecture, and deep religious heritage, making the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows a fitting guardian of this historic corner of the city.