San Pawl Milqi | Naxxar

San Pawl Milqi is an archaeological site in Mosta, located in the northern part of Malta. The name San Pawl Milqi translates to "St. Paul’s (Place of) Rest" or "St. Paul’s Resting Place," referring to the belief that the site is linked to the Apostle St. Paul, who is said to have been shipwrecked on the island of Malta in 60 AD, according to the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament.

The site is significant both for its historical and religious connections, as well as its archaeological value, offering insights into Malta’s Roman and Early Christian periods.

History and Significance:

St. Paul’s Shipwreck: According to local tradition, St. Paul was shipwrecked on the Malta coast during a journey to Rome. After the shipwreck, Paul is believed to have spent a brief period on the island, during which he was believed to have healed the local governor’s father and converted many of the islanders to Christianity. The exact locations connected to these events are not definitively known, but San Pawl Milqi is traditionally considered one of the places linked to St. Paul's stay on the island.

Roman and Early Christian Use: While the connection to St. Paul is part of local legend, the archaeological remains found at the site suggest a history that predates Christianity, most notably with evidence of Roman and Early Christian activity in the area. The site likely served as a Roman villa or estate, and later developed into an important early Christian center of worship after the spread of Christianity on the island.

Archaeological Discoveries:

Roman Villa: The San Pawl Milqi site features remains of a Roman villa that dates back to the 1st century AD, during the time of St. Paul’s shipwreck. The villa was part of a wealthy Roman estate, and excavations have uncovered rooms, mosaics, and architectural fragments that give insight into the Roman way of life in Malta. The villa’s well-planned design includes a peristyle courtyard, a bathing complex, and several rooms, some of which were likely used for domestic purposes and others for storage or servants’ quarters.

Christian Basilica: The site also contains the ruins of a Christian basilica, likely built during the Early Christian period (4th to 5th century AD), indicating the conversion of the island to Christianity. The basilica was likely a place of worship for early Christians and possibly linked to the conversion of the Maltese population after St. Paul’s missionary activities. The basilica features architectural elements such as an apse, and parts of the mosaic flooring have been preserved.

Mosaics and Artifacts: Several mosaics have been discovered at San Pawl Milqi, particularly in the Roman villa. These mosaics are intricately designed, with motifs typical of Roman-style flooring, including geometric patterns and depictions of animals, and are an important part of understanding Roman artistic practices on Malta. Additionally, artifacts such as coins, pottery, and tools have been uncovered, providing valuable information about daily life during the Roman and early Christian periods.

Underground Burial Complex: There are also traces of an underground burial complex, which may have been used by early Christians for funerary rites. This adds to the site’s religious significance, linking it further to the early spread of Christianity in Malta.

Preservation and Site Features:

Site Layout: Today, San Pawl Milqi is an open-air archaeological site that visitors can explore. The remains of the Roman villa and the early Christian basilica are the primary attractions at the site. Visitors can walk along the foundations, see the preserved mosaics, and view parts of the villa’s structure and the church complex.

Interpretive Centre: To aid in understanding the significance of the site, an interpretive centre has been established at the location. The centre provides detailed exhibits, including models, photographs, and explanations of the historical and archaeological findings, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the site’s importance from both a historical and religious perspective.

Religious Significance: The association of the site with St. Paul makes it an important pilgrimage destination for many Christians. It is believed that St. Paul spent time at this location, and its religious associations continue to attract visitors who come to connect with the island's early Christian history.

Location and Access:

Location: San Pawl Milqi is located just outside of Mosta, in the northern part of Malta. The site is situated in a rural area, offering a peaceful and serene environment for visitors. It is easily accessible by road from the main town of Mosta, and visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including fields and agricultural areas.

Accessibility: The site is open to the public, and there are pathways that allow visitors to explore the various archaeological features. Information panels and guides are available to enhance the experience, and the site is suitable for visitors interested in both the history of Malta and the religious traditions linked to St. Paul.

Conclusion:

San Pawl Milqi is a fascinating and historically rich site in Malta, offering a glimpse into the island's Roman and Early Christian past. The archaeological remains, including the Roman villa, Christian basilica, and mosaics, provide valuable insights into the life of the time, while the religious associations with St. Paul add a layer of spiritual significance to the site. Whether you are interested in archaeology, history, or religion, San Pawl Milqi is an important landmark that reflects Malta’s diverse heritage and its pivotal role in the spread of Christianity in the Mediterranean.