Ta’ Pinu Basilica - Għarb, Gozo - Marian Mosaic Framed in Carved Stone

A colourful mosaic of the Virgin Mary framed by an intricately carved limestone arch inside Ta’ Pinu Basilica near Għarb, Gozo.

This photograph shows a colourful Marian mosaic inside Ta’ Pinu Basilica near Għarb on the island of Gozo. The Virgin Mary is depicted standing in prayer against a richly coloured background, while an intricately carved limestone arch surrounds the image with floral and geometric ornament. The warm colours and fine detail of the mosaic contrast beautifully with the pale stonework, demonstrating the combination of decorative art and traditional Maltese craftsmanship found throughout the sanctuary. The present National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu was begun in 1920 and incorporated the much older chapel associated with the origins of devotion at the site. The new church was blessed and opened in 1932, while its prominent bell tower was completed in 1934. Ta’ Pinu became an important pilgrimage destination following events in 1883, when Karmni Grima reported hearing the voice of the Virgin Mary calling to her from the old chapel. Today the basilica contains a rich collection of religious artworks reflecting the sanctuary’s enduring importance in Gozitan and Maltese Catholic tradition.