St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is an architectural gem in the centre of the medieval city of Mdina

St. Paul’s Cathedral is a 17th century masterpiece located in the heart of Mdina. According to tradition, the Cathedral was built on the area where St. Paul converted Publius, the Roman governor, to Christianity. It seems that there used to be a small church from the 4th century instead of it that was destroyed during an earthquake in 1693. However, the original 900-year old door carved from Irish bogwood is still intact, and now serves as the door leading to the Sacristy of the Cathedral.

The Cathedral, designed by Lorenzo Gafa’, has a prominent facade that dominates the landscape of Mdina’s narrow streets. The Cathedral has an outstanding dome that inspired several painters who attempted to decorate its interior. There are works of art by the famous Mattia Preti, amongst which is the immense illustration of The Conversion of St. Paul in the choir behind the main altar. The marble pavimento includes tombstones that depict the emblems of the Mdina bishops as well as other members of the clergy.