The Way of Saint James is surely the most renowned pilgrimage route in Europe. The camino, traditionally concluding at the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in Santiago de Compostela (Spain) takes pilgrims on a journey through diverse landscapes, villages, and historical sites. Malta, a Mediterranean archipelago steeped in religious history, is an unexpected but fascinating inclusion along this path.
Malta, being one of the early cradles of Christianity, holds a unique place in biblical narrative. The connection between Malta and the Christian faith is notably mentioned in the Book of Acts, in the Christian New Testament. This book recounts the early history of the Christian Church. Often attributed to Luke, a companion of the Apostle Paul, the book serves as a sequel to the Luke’s Gospel. It details the formation of the first Christian communities, describes the missionary journeys of Paul, and offers insights into early Christian doctrines, the spread of Christianity, Peter’s leadership, and the challenges faced by the apostles.
Acts 28, 1-10 recounts the shipwreck of the Apostle Paul on the island during his journey to Rome. The passage describes how the inhabitants of Malta showed unusual kindness to the shipwreck survivors (including Paul) and how Paul healed the father of Publius, the chief official of the island who would then become its first bishop –and saint. This event, along with the welcoming spirit of the Maltese people, cements Malta’s significance in Christian history.
The inclusion of Malta in the Way of Saint James is a testament to the archipelago’s historical and spiritual importance. When the tomb of Saint James was discovered, in the early 9th century, news spread like wildfire, attracting pilgrims from all over Europe –and beyond. Sooner than later, a whole network of pilgrimage routes grew, crossing the entire continent and the Mediterranean sea, through Malta. Pilgrims following this route seek not only the final destination in Santiago de Compostela but, perhaps, a deeper connection with themselves. Malta, with its early Christian roots and proverbial hospitality, becomes a meaningful stop along this journey, providing pilgrims with an opportunity see the places in which the historical events recorded in the Book of Acts took place –and to experience the warmth that Luke and Paul enjoyed during their time on the island.
The Maltese leg of the Way of Saint James, the Camino Maltés, offers pilgrims a chance to explore significant religious sites, including seemingly countless churches, chapels, and even fortresses that showcase Malta’s rich Christian heritage –an uninterrupted, 2000-years-long tradition that has resisted invasions, epic sieges, and even world wars. The route through Malta weaves through picturesque landscapes and ancient towns, offering pilgrims a mix of cultural, historical, and spiritual experiences. As walkers traverse the Maltese terrain, they encounter not only the physical challenges of the pilgrimage but also a unique connection to the early days of Christianity –catacombs included.
