More than 50 religious shrines, known in Maltese as niċeċ, can still be found on the walls and above doorways of Victoria, Gozo’s capital. Some are over 300 years old, and range from carved stone niches beneath Baroque canopies to painted figures displayed behind glass.
The shrines were created by householders rather than the Church. Families placed images of their patron saints or the Virgin Mary in public view, seeking protection for their homes. The Immaculate Conception, St Joseph, St Francis and the Sacred Heart appear frequently, with each shrine reflecting its maker’s style.
There is no single group responsible for maintaining them. Some owners have restored their shrines, while others are losing paint or becoming hidden behind air-conditioning units and new exterior render. The niches are now being photographed and catalogued, and three self-guided walking routes connect notable examples near the Citadel.
The shrines stand on public streets and can be viewed for free at any time. The routes, each taking less than an hour, include maps and photographs and are available at niccec.com/walking-tour. Some niches are best seen in morning or late-afternoon light. The lanes around the Citadel have steps and uneven surfaces, so flat shoes are recommended.
Sources: Atlas Obscura.