Both Girgenti and Laferla Cross are situated in the outskirts of Siggiewi, which is very close to my hometown, Zebbug.
It’s ideal to walk up there, early in the morning, to watch sunrise. From atop the view extends 180 degrees or more from Mdina up to Fawwara.
Walking upwards towards Laferla Cross, one comes across a number of statues representing the final hours before Jesus was crucified. These statues have been built about 125 years ago. The first part of the uphill is asphalted whereas the last stretch is rough. Fields lie on the both sides of the path.
The first Laferla Cross was built in 1903 and was named after the priest who came up with the idea to build it, Fr. Paul Laferla. The cross itself was restored and replaced a number of times. The present cross is 16meters high and stands on a limestone pedestal which holds a small chapel within.
Presently the top area where the Chapel of the Annunciation and the Cross itself are situated are closed off for the public since some maintenance works are being carried out, even though it seems that they are taking ages to finish.
Laferla Cross reaches its peak on Maundy Thursday, when many Catholics walk up the hill which would be lit up with hundreds of candles.
The path from Laferla Cross takes you towards a small parking area. Walking the road on the right takes you to Dingli Cliffs. After walking for about 2km you have to turn right and take the downhill road towards Girgenti. Road signage is available.
Walking down this road you will come across a lemon orchard and in spring a large strawberry field. Just a few meters down, you get to the shrine dedicated to Madonna tal-Girgenti.
The shrine of Girgenti was erected by Guza Mifsud on 5th May 1986. She claimed that many years before she had seen Our Lady wearing a white dress. The shrine is open 24/7 and many locals of all ages flock there to pray the rosary. Organised prayer meetings are held on the first and third Sunday of each month. This shrine at Girgenti, offers a place of refuge for people in search of spirituality, peacefulness and comfort.
eman azzopardi 