Luqa

Luqa is a town located in the Southern Region of Malta, 4.3 km away from the capital Valletta. The population of Luqa, Malta is approximately 7,335, according to data from February 2025. it is a small but densely populated settlement which is typical of Malta’s older towns and villages.

Ħal Luqa is nearly surrounded from all directions with industrial areas: to the north by the Marsa Industrial Estate, to the east by the four cities of Paola, Santa Lucia, Gudja and Ghaxaq, to the south by the three villages of Safi, Kirkop and Mqabba, and to the west by the cities of Siggiewi and Qormi. The Locality still retains a traditional historical core characterized by an organic street pattern with the 17th century parish church dominating the main square of this core.

Ħal Luqa’s history is shaped by moments of both joy and hardship, with the construction of the airport in 1937 leaving the most profound impact. Originally a quiet village, Ħal Luqa became central to Malta’s aviation development due to its strategic location, first serving military aircraft during British colonial rule and later expanding to civil aviation. The airport’s survival after World War II, when other airstrips were destroyed, positioned it as Malta’s primary aviation hub. However, its presence also made Ħal Luqa a target for air raids, resulting in widespread destruction, including severe damage to the Parish Church of St. Andrew, which was rebuilt between 1944 and 1962 and now houses notable artworks like Mattia Preti’s 1687 titular painting.

Airport construction also unearthed ancient tombs and Roman catacombs, some of which were lost or rendered inaccessible due to development. Beyond aviation, Ħal Luqa boasts significant landmarks such as the Parish Church of St. Andrew, the St. Vincent de Paul home for the elderly with its Sacred Heart Chapel, and the relocated Chapel of St. James. The town also thrives socially and culturally, with numerous organizations and sports clubs—particularly football—and two prominent band clubs that play a vital role in community life.

During Holy Week, the village of Luqa in Malta becomes a focal point of solemn devotion and cultural expression, renowned for its deeply rooted religious traditions. The observances begin with the Procession of Our Lady of Sorrows, followed by the Palm Sunday procession, both of which draw the community together in prayer and reflection. The highlight of the week is Luqa’s Good Friday procession—one of the most prominent in Malta—where participants dressed in biblical costumes carry statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. This moving event, typically held in the late afternoon around 5:30 p.m., creates a powerful and contemplative atmosphere throughout the village. Complementing the procession are passion pageants and exhibitions, featuring miniature statues and reenactments that deepen the spiritual experience. Leading up to Holy Week, the Lenten period is marked by daily Mass, the Stations of the Cross, and the veiling of religious images, all contributing to a mood of penitence and preparation. Together, these traditions reflect Luqa’s enduring commitment to faith and its vibrant cultural heritage. The celebrations culminate on Easter Sunday, the first Easter Sunday in Luqa in 2021 was on April 4, 2021. As in the rest of Malta, Luqa celebrated Easter Sunday with traditional events like processions and bell ringing. L-Irxoxt Procession: A key part of the celebration is the procession of the statue of the Risen Christ, known as “l-Irxoxt,” through the streets.