Rotunda of Mosta (Mosta Dome)

The Rotunda of Mosta (Mosta Dome) rises over the town of Mosta in the centre of Malta, between Valletta and the north coast, a few kilometres from Mdina. It is a parish church built on a circular plan with a vast unsupported dome. The Rotunda Foundation describes its dome as almost 40 metres in diameter and unsupported by internal pillars.

The church is best known for an event in 1942. On 9 April 1942, during the Second World War, a bomb pierced the dome and landed on the church floor. It did not explode, no one died and the church was not destroyed. A replica of the bomb is shown in the sacristy, alongside paintings and a large-scale model of the church. The interior is decorated with paintings by Giuseppe Calì and other artists.

Tickets and opening times

As of November 2026, the parish sells two visits. The full experience at EUR 8 covers the basilica, the crypt, the church museum, a walk around the outside of the dome, the inner balcony of the dome, the Second World War shelter and an audio guide on your phone. The short visit at EUR 5 covers the basilica, the shelter and the audio guide. Visiting hours are Monday to Friday 9:30 to 18:00 (last entry 17:30), Saturday 9:30 to 16:30 (last entry 16:00) and Sunday 12:00 to 17:00 (last entry 16:30).

• The main entrance has a gentle ramp; the inner gallery and the wartime shelter are reached only by stairs.
• The Dome Visitors Centre has a lift and accessible toilets.
• Mosta sits between Mdina and the north coast, so it fits a day that also takes in St Paul's Cathedral or the Malta National Aquarium.

As of November 2026, pick the EUR 8 visit if you can manage stairs: the view down into the church from the inner balcony is the highlight. This is an active parish church, so dress modestly and avoid wandering during Mass. Parking beside the church is limited.