Ta’ Pinu Basilica - Għarb, Gozo - Ornate Interior Beneath the Illuminated Dome

Looking upward through the richly decorated interior of Ta’ Pinu Basilica towards the softly illuminated dome above the sanctuary.

This photograph looks upward through the richly decorated interior of Ta’ Pinu Basilica near Għarb on the island of Gozo. Tall columns and elaborately patterned arches frame the view towards the softly illuminated dome, where windows and a central opening allow warm natural light to filter into the sanctuary below. The present basilica developed from a much older rural chapel whose documented history extends back several centuries. In 1575 the deteriorating chapel was ordered to be demolished, but according to tradition the first workman attempting the demolition broke his arm and the building was consequently spared. Pinu Gauci later financed its restoration in 1611, and the chapel eventually became known as Ta’ Pinu. Its transformation into a major pilgrimage destination followed the events of 22 June 1883, when Karmni Grima reported hearing a mysterious voice calling her from the chapel. Growing devotion and increasing numbers of pilgrims led to construction of the present Romanesque-style sanctuary beginning in 1920. The new church was blessed and opened in 1932 and was elevated to the dignity of a Minor Basilica by Pope Pius XI in 1935.