Thousands Cycle to Żabbar for Annual Our Lady of Graces Pilgrimage
In brief
- Thousands of cyclists and motorcyclists took part in the annual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces in Żabbar.
- The long-standing tradition dates back to the 1950s, with this year marking the 75th anniversary of the titular painting's coronation.
- Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister Byron Camilleri were among those who joined the bicycle ride.
The streets leading to Żabbar filled with thousands of cyclists and motorcyclists on Sunday as the town held its traditional annual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces.
The event forms a central part of the celebrations surrounding the local feast of Our Lady of Graces, drawing riders of all ages from across Malta.
This year's edition held additional significance for the locality, commemorating 75 years since the coronation of the titular painting of the Madonna tal-Grazzja.
The pilgrimage on two wheels has a long history in the town, with the tradition originally dating back to the 1950s before expanding into a major national gathering.
Government representatives also participated in the procession, with Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri riding alongside the cyclists.
The procession concluded in the town centre outside the sanctuary, where crowds gathered to welcome the participants as the feast festivities continued.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. All outlets reported the annual pilgrimage consistently, with coverage focusing on the event's turnout and religious traditions.