Ta' Pinu Shrine in Gozo

THE MIRACULOUS TA’ PINU SHRINE

Words by Terrence Mifsud

The Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu is a Catholic devotion that originated in Malta's sister island, Gozo. Għarb is home to the Ta' Pinu Basilica, where every year, thousands of tourists pay the church a visit for blessing and worship. The neo-Romanesque church, which rises to a height of 61 metres, was built between 1920 and 1931 on the site of an earlier 16th century chapel.

Pinu Gauci, the procurator of the church, gave monies to have it renovated in 1611. Amadeo Perugino painted the Assumption of Our Lady altarpiece in 1619. The church property changed hands in 1858, and the name was changed from "Of the Gentile" to "Ta' Pinu," which means "Of Philip."

Ta' Pinu first appeared in the Curia of Gozo's files, particularly when Bishop Domenico Cubelles made a visit to the chapel, noting that it had recently been renovated and that the property belonged to the aristocratic family of "The Gentile." Msgr. Pietro Dusina, an apostolic visitor to the Maltese Islands in 1575, discovered the chapel in bad shape and ordered its demolition. According to a legend, the workman fractured his arm when he dealt the first blow with a pick. This was interpreted as an omen for the chapel's preservation. The Virgin of Ta' Pinu has been linked to a number of miraculous healings involving Maltese and foreigners who claim to have been rescued, cured, or assisted by the Virgin's intercession. Many ex-votos have been offered to the Sanctuary by persons who have been cured, saved, or obtained favours as a result of Our Lady Of Ta' Pinu's intercession. The numerous visitors who visit the basilica

on a daily basis may still view recounting of these miracles. Ta' Pinu is a significant and cherished figure in the life of all Gozitans, including those who reside overseas.

Before departing to follow their relatives for medical treatment overseas, many families go to the Sanctuary to ask for Our Lady's intercession. Volunteers from "Fondazzjoni Puttinu Cares" in Sutton, England, were given a blessed copy of Our Lady of Ta' Pinu's artwork to encourage cancer patients not to lose hope and to experience the Virgin Mary's protection during tough times.

Our Lady Of Ta' Pinu's reputation has extended across the Maltese diaspora. Since tens of thousands of Maltese and Gozitans immigrated to the United States and Australia, the Maltese have built shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Ta' Pinu.