Even though Malta has more than enough architectural gems and historical landmarks on the surface, the island’s underground really knows how to take things to a fascinating (and eerie) level. Recently, locals and tourists alike have finally been exploring the depths of Valletta, but it is what one Maltese person found underneath a church in the capital that has really captured the minds and hearts of people.

Hidden deep under St. Augustine Church in the heart of Valletta, lie a series of tunnels dating all the way back to the 16th century. And while visiting them in a personalised guided tour, Adrian and Suzanna Friggieri took a couple of photos that lit up their Facebook newsfeed.

“It really is an amazing place, and you can really feel the history all around you,” Adrian told Lovin Malta. “Especially in the part that served as a shelter. There are a huge number of pencil-written notes and drawings from 1941 which were done during the air raids. They all help to uniquely describe what these people were living through in those days, in such a raw way.”

“I had visited the shelter once before, during Notte Bianca, but doing it on my own with a guide was much better,” Adrian said. “The whole experience felt very subjective and personal.”

What’s so incredible about the underground complex is how, effortlessly intertwined with these remnants of the Second World War, are structures and relics that date back all the way to Valletta’s humble 16th century beginnings. In fact, beyond the shelter, there’s also a crypt, a cloister courtyard, an oratory and an old chapel. 

St. Augustine’s underground complex was open for last weekend’s Valletta’s Green Festival, but cultural heritage restorer Denis Darmanin said he hoped to have the initiative available again soon.

Darmanin was actually behind the Friggieri’s personal tour, thanks to the work at the Augustinian Socio-Cultural Environmental Foundation. He offered the opportunity for any interested people to form part of a 15 or 20-strong group and organise a tour for a Saturday morning or late afternoon, along with the help of the convent’s Fr. Alex. Sounds like a perfect weekend plan!

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David Grech Urpani

Lovin Malta's Head of Content, Dave has been in journalism for the better half of the last decade. Prefers Instagram, but has been known to doomscroll on TikTok. Loves chicken, women's clothes and Kanye West (most of the time).