It is one of the sixty-eight local councils that make up the current territorial organization of the Republic of Malta, which came into force in 1993. Also known as Città Pinto, it is located southwest of Valletta in the center of the island. Two valleys run through the city: Wied il-Kbir (The Great Valley) and Wied is-Sewda (Black Valley).
Hal Qormi
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Hal Qormi
BACKGROUND
WHAT TO SEE
Qormi has two parishes dedicated to Saint George and Saint Sebastian. St. George’s parish was the first. However, when Qormi was growing, the need arose to divide the town into two parishes to facilitate growth. The second parish was erected in honor of Saint Sebastian because Qormi had turned to him in times of plague, since he is the protector against this ailment according to Catholic tradition.
The Temples of Hagar Qim and Ggantija are one of the oldest preserved. This large architectural complex was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980 and dates to about 3,600 years BC. There are signs of fertility rituals and animal sacrifices. However, no human bones or burials have been discovered in the area.
HOLY WEEK AND EASTER
Malta Holy Week is known worldwide for its Catholic traditions and the passion with which the population experience it, staging events and processions that leave both tourists and locals amazed. It is relevant to point out that there are more than 360 churches in an archipelago of just 300 square kilometers.
Hal Qormi Holy Week is part of the Southern Regional Council, made up of a total of twelve localities that have in common, among other things, the celebration of the procession of the Virgin of Sorrows.
The city hosts one of the most important Good Fridays on the island of Malta that represents a moment of special cultural relevance. This is one of the oldest processions that takes place on the island. The first written document that certifies its origin indicates that the first time it was taken out from the parish church of Saint George for a procession was April 15, 1764. More than 800 people participate and, of these, 120 carry on their shoulders the statues that make up the procession.
