Thundering Faith: 15,000 Maltese Bikers Pilgrimage to Żabbar’s Madonna in Spectacular Annual Tradition

**In pictures: Pilgrims ride to Żabbar on feast of Our Lady of Graces**

The narrow country lanes of Malta’s southeast came alive yesterday with the thunderous rumble of motorcycle engines as thousands of bikers converged on Żabbar for one of the island’s most unique religious traditions. The annual motorcycle pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces transformed the typically quiet roads into a river of chrome and devotion, creating a spectacle that perfectly encapsulates Malta’s distinctive blend of faith and modern culture.

By 7am, the first groups of riders had already begun their journey from villages across Malta and Gozo, their bikes adorned with small Maltese flags and images of the Madonna. The pilgrimage, which has grown exponentially since its modest beginnings in the 1970s, now attracts an estimated 15,000 motorcyclists annually, making it one of Europe’s largest religious biking events.

“This isn’t just about the ride,” explained Mario Camilleri, 58, president of the Malta Bikers Association, as he prepared to lead a group from Mosta. “It’s about carrying our faith on two wheels. Each engine that fires up this morning is a prayer in motion.”

The route itself has become as much a part of the tradition as the destination. Riders wind through picturesque villages like Marsaxlokk, Birżebbuġa, and Żejtun, where locals line the streets to wave and bless the passing procession. Elderly women clutch rosaries while children excitedly point at the gleaming Harley-Davidsons and vintage Vespas that rumble past their doorsteps.

By mid-morning, Żabbar’s main square resembled a vast open-air motorcycle museum. Classic British bikes from the 1960s stood alongside cutting-edge Italian sports machines, while custom choppers painted in the Maltese colors vied for attention with pristine vintage Lambrettas. The diversity of machines reflects the broad appeal of the pilgrimage, attracting everyone from teenage scooter enthusiasts to leather-clad veterans of Malta’s biking scene.

The cultural significance runs deeper than mere spectacle. Żabbar’s Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces has been a focal point of devotion since medieval times, with the Madonna venerated as the protectress against plague and war. The motorcycle pilgrimage represents a modern interpretation of ancient penitential journeys, adapted to contemporary Maltese culture.

“This tradition shows how Maltese Catholicism evolves while maintaining its core,” observed Professor George Cassar, who studies religious anthropology at the University of Malta. “These bikers aren’t just enthusiasts – they’re modern-day pilgrims expressing faith through their passion.”

Local businesses certainly aren’t complaining. By lunchtime, Żabbar’s cafés and pastizzerias were doing brisk trade, with queues stretching around corners. The parish church’s volunteer group reported selling over 3,000 portions of imqaret (traditional date pastries) by early afternoon, while local band clubs hosted impromptu jam sessions that blended rock anthems with traditional Maltese hymns.

The economic boost extends beyond immediate sales. Photographers and videographers document the event for international biking magazines, showcasing Malta’s unique religious culture to global audiences. Tourism officials estimate the pilgrimage generates approximately €500,000 in direct and indirect revenue for the local economy.

As evening approached and engines gradually fell silent, the true spirit of the event revealed itself. In the sanctuary’s cool interior, leather jackets were respectfully removed as bikers knelt in prayer, their tattooed arms clutching candles. The contrast between tough exteriors and quiet devotion created moments of profound beauty.

The blessing ceremony, conducted by Archbishop Charles Scicluna, acknowledged this unique congregation. “These steel horses carry not just bodies, but souls seeking grace,” he told the packed church. “In their thunder, we hear the heartbeat of a living faith.”

As riders dispersed into the Maltese night, heading back to villages scattered across the archipelago, they carried more than memories of a spectacular gathering. They had participated in a living tradition that demonstrates how Malta’s deep Catholic faith continues to find new expressions, uniting communities across generations and social boundaries in shared devotion.