As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets of Sliema, a different kind of energy starts to build. It’s not the usual hum of tourists or the chatter of locals enjoying a Sunday stroll. Instead, it’s the anticipation of a time-honoured tradition that brings the community together – the annual Marian procession.

The Marian procession in Sliema is a centuries-old tradition that dates back to the 18th century. It’s a celebration of faith, a testament to the community’s resilience, and a beautiful display of devotion. The procession is held on the first Sunday of May, honouring the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

In 1722, a group of Carmelite friars settled in Sliema, bringing with them a statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The statue was originally from the Carmelite church in Valletta, but it found a new home in the small chapel dedicated to St. Gregory the Great in Sliema. The annual procession began as a way to honour and celebrate the arrival of this sacred statue in Sliema.

The procession starts at around 6 pm from the Church of St. Gregory the Great, located on St. Gregory Street. The route winds through the heart of Sliema, taking in some of the town’s most iconic streets and landmarks. It passes along Tower Road, where the grand Victorian buildings stand tall, and along the bustling The Strand, offering a stark contrast between the old and the new.

The procession makes its way back to the church via St. Margaret Street, where the narrow, winding street is lined with residents cheering and waving. The statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is carried on a beautifully decorated float, accompanied by a marching band and a sea of candles held by the faithful.

After the procession, the statue is returned to the church, where a solemn Mass is celebrated. The evening concludes with a fireworks display over the sea, a spectacular end to a day filled with faith, community, and tradition.

The Marian procession in Sliema is more than just a religious event. It’s a celebration of community, a time for neighbours to catch up, for families to spend time together, and for the town to come alive in a way that’s unique to this day. It’s a spectacle that draws visitors from across Malta, offering them a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage and the deep-rooted faith of its people.

For many, the procession is also a time for reflection and prayer. It’s an opportunity to seek blessings, to give thanks, and to ask for intercession. It’s a moment to pause amidst the hustle and bustle of life and to connect with something greater.

As the procession winds its way through the streets of Sliema, the air is filled with the sound of hymns, the beat of drums, and the murmur of prayers. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of faith and community that binds this small island nation together.