Franciscan Church of St Mary of Jesus, Baroque church in Valletta, Malta
The Franciscan Church of St Mary of Jesus is a Baroque stone structure in Valletta featuring a prominent dome and elaborately detailed architectural elements on its main facade. The building shapes the character of the central urban area with its solid stone construction.
Construction began in 1571 under architect Girolamo Cassar and was shaped by later modifications in 1681 funded by Grand Master Carafa. These two phases formed the building's current appearance.
The interior displays paintings by renowned artists like Mattia Preti and a crucifix created by Sicilian friar Innocenzo da Petralia Sottana that visitors can observe while walking through. These artworks reflect the artistic importance this place held within the religious community.
The church stands on Triq San Gwann street in central Valletta surrounded by numerous other historical structures within easy walking distance. Visitors should be aware that regular Catholic services take place and this may affect visiting hours.
The church holds the remains of Blessed Nazju Falzon, a 19th-century cleric who taught Catholic doctrine to British sailors stationed in Malta. This lesser-known aspect reveals the connection this place had to Malta's maritime past.
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