Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck

The Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck is a significant religious and cultural celebration in Malta, held annually on February 10th. It commemorates the shipwreck of the Apostle Paul on the island, as described in the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. According to tradition, St. Paul's shipwreck occurred around 60 AD, and his arrival marked the introduction of Christianity to Malta. The feast is particularly celebrated in Valletta, the capital city, where the Collegiate Parish Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck is dedicated to this event. The church houses important relics, including a piece of the column on which St. Paul was believed to have been beheaded in Rome. The celebration includes religious services, processions, and festivities. A statue of St. Paul is carried through the streets, accompanied by bands and enthusiastic crowds. The feast is a vibrant mix of faith, tradition, and Maltese culture, featuring fireworks, decorations, and community gatherings. It is a public holiday in Malta, allowing locals and visitors alike to participate in the festivities and honor the island's Christian heritage.