Misrah il-Maqluba

The area known as tal-Maqluba is characterized not only by this natural doline but also by the chapel that stands at the top of this sinkhole. This chapel is dedicated to St. Matthew, with the square opposite known as ‘Misraħ San Mattew’, literally meaning St. Matthew’s Square.  The square in front of the chapel is surrounded by a small number of very old carob trees. Some old residents recount that when they were young, the area in front of the chapel was full of these carob trees, out of which now only three remain. 

The name Maqluba means upside down and is probably the result of a legend that narrates the creation of this sinkhole. This natural depression was formed from the collapse of the underlying limestone strata, which in the geological language is referred to as doline. This sinkhole was formed around 23rd November 1343, when Malta experienced one of the most severe winter storms, probably accompanied by an earthquake. In fact, the road leading to Misraħ il-Maqluba is called ‘Triq it-Tempesta’ (Tempest Street), which is a clear reference to this event. A chapel, a sinkhole, and a fascinating legend