Ħamrun

Il‑Ħamrun is a suburb on the Maltese Islands, located about 3.2 km from the capital city Valletta (Città Umilissima). Built on a gently rising plain near Tas‑Samra, its streets are mostly straight, with only a few narrow lanes near the police station. Originally formed from parts of the parishes of Ħal Qormi (Città Pinto), Birkirkara, and Floriana, Il‑Ħamrun once covered a larger area, but its boundaries were reduced when Santa Venera and Marsa became parishes in their own right. The town’s motto, Propera Augesco—“I grow suddenly”—reflects its history: although slow to establish, Il‑Ħamrun eventually expanded rapidly, developing into the vibrant suburb recognized today.

Il‑Ħamrun has transformed greatly over the past decades, developing rapidly to the point where it nearly rivals Valletta, with a wide variety of shops that make daily life convenient for residents. Historically, the town was known as Casale San Giuseppe, named after the Church of St. Joseph at the top of the main road, but in 1888 the government officially adopted the name Il‑Ħamrun, reflecting the name already in common use among the people. This change marked the shift from its older identity to the vibrant suburb recognized today.

Ħamrun, one of Malta’s most vibrant suburbs, offers visitors a fascinating mix of history, culture, and everyday life. At its heart stands the Parish Church of Saint Cajetan, a striking Baroque landmark that dominates the town’s skyline and remains central to local identity. The suburb is also home to several other historic churches and chapels, including the Church of St. Francis, the Church of Porto Salvo, the Church of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, and the Madonna tas‑Samra Church, each reflecting the community’s deep religious heritage.

Walking through Ħamrun, visitors encounter streets lined with traditional Maltese houses, many adorned with colorful wooden balconies and ornate stonework, giving the area a distinctive charm.

Other notable sites include the Church of Our Lady of Atocia, built in the 19th century, and the Victor Tedesco Stadium, a hub for local football and community spirit. Beyond its landmarks, Ħamrun is renowned for its bustling shops, cafés, and markets, which provide a lively atmosphere and a true taste of Maltese daily life.

Together, these elements make Ħamrun a destination where heritage and modernity meet, offering visitors both cultural discovery and authentic local experiences, while its churches and chapels stand as enduring symbols of faith and tradition.

In Hamrun, Holy Week traditions are focused on local exhibits rather than the processions common in other towns. The Għaqda Mużikali San Gejtanu (Saint Gaetan Band Club) hosts popular exhibits during Holy Week, often featuring elaborate displays of religious statues and artwork created by local enthusiasts

Holy Week in Ħamrun is marked by a series of solemn and deeply rooted traditions. The celebrations begin with the procession of Christ the Redeemer on Holy Wednesday, followed by the procession of Our Lady of Sorrows and the observances of Palm Sunday. Within the parish churches, liturgical ceremonies take center stage, including the washing of the feet on Maundy Thursday and the solemn commemoration of the Passion of the Lord at 3:00 p.m. on Good Friday. Together, these processions and services create a powerful atmosphere of devotion, blending community participation with the rich spiritual heritage of the town.