Comino Chapel | Comino

Comino Chapel (Chapel of St. Mary)

The Comino Chapel, also known as the Chapel of St. Mary, is a small yet historically significant chapel located on the island of Comino, the smallest inhabited island in the Maltese archipelago. Despite its modest size, the chapel plays a central role in the island's religious and cultural life.

Historical Background

Origins:
The Comino Chapel is believed to date back to the 16th century and is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a popular devotion in the Catholic faith. Its exact founding date is not known, but it is thought to have been built during the period of the Knights of St. John. The chapel’s construction is closely tied to the Knights' presence in Malta and their interest in spreading Catholicism to even the smaller islands of the archipelago.

Restorations:
Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone various restorations, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. In the 1950s, the chapel was significantly renovated, and it was consecrated again in 1951. These restoration efforts have helped preserve the chapel and maintain its role as a place of worship on the island.

Architectural Features

Design and Structure:
The chapel is a simple, rectangular building with a relatively modest exterior. The structure is typical of small Maltese chapels, with a bell tower over the entrance and a tiled roof. The chapel's interior is equally modest but reflects traditional Maltese church architecture with a small altar, a few paintings, and an image of the Virgin Mary. The walls are adorned with simple decorations, and the chapel is often lit by natural light streaming through the small windows.

Size and Atmosphere:
The chapel is not large, reflecting the small scale of the island of Comino itself. However, it has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, with its quaint design making it a welcoming place for visitors and pilgrims. The chapel’s quiet, isolated location contributes to its tranquil environment, making it an ideal spot for personal reflection or prayer.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Feast of the Assumption:
Like many churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Comino Chapel celebrates the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary on August 15. This is a significant religious event in the Maltese calendar, and even though Comino is sparsely populated, the chapel often sees a small number of pilgrims and locals attending Mass or offering prayers on this day.

Spiritual Life on Comino:
While Comino is not densely populated, the chapel is important for the island’s few residents and visitors who come to the island for religious or cultural reasons. The chapel is occasionally used for Mass services and special religious events, although these are infrequent due to the small population of the island.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the Center of the Island:
The chapel is located in the central area of Comino, a short walk from the island’s main attractions, including Blue Lagoon and the Santa Marija Bay. Its location allows for stunning views of the surrounding Mediterranean Sea, and the chapel is visible from various points on the island.

Accessibility:
The chapel is accessible by foot, as Comino is a small, car-free island. Visitors typically arrive by boat from either Malta or Gozo, and from the dock, it is just a short walk to the chapel. It is a popular stop for tourists exploring the island’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Visitor Experience

Tourism and Pilgrimage:
While Comino is mainly known for its natural beauty, including the famous Blue Lagoon, the Comino Chapel adds a cultural and spiritual element to a visit to the island. Although it is a quiet and somewhat remote location, the chapel is a favorite stop for those interested in the history and religious heritage of Malta.

Cultural and Religious Reflection:
The chapel’s tranquil atmosphere provides an ideal space for reflection, prayer, or even a simple break from the busier tourist areas of Malta and Gozo. Its historical significance and its role as a place of worship continue to draw a small but devoted group of visitors each year.

Nearby Attractions

Blue Lagoon:
The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular spots in Comino and is located not far from the chapel. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and sandy bottom, the lagoon is a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Santa Marija Bay:
Santa Marija Bay is another beautiful spot on the island, offering clear waters and a tranquil beach. It is located on the opposite side of the island from the chapel but is easily accessible.

Comino Tower:
A short walk from the chapel is the Comino Tower, a historical watchtower built by the Knights of St. John in the 17th century. It offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding seas.

Conclusion

The Comino Chapel may be small, but it is an important landmark on Comino Island, offering both historical and spiritual value. Its serene location and simple beauty make it an ideal spot for reflection, whether for religious purposes or simply to enjoy the peace and solitude of the island. The chapel serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural legacy of Malta and continues to be a place of quiet reverence for those who visit.