The Good Friday Procession: Afternoon Tour in Zejtun

If you’re visiting Malta during Easter and want to witness a deeply moving tradition, the Good Friday Procession in Zejtun offers an immersive experience that combines history, community spirit, and cultural reverence. This tour provides a comfortable way to observe Malta’s most important religious event, including reserved seating, guided commentary, and full transportation — all for a reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to watch life-size statues depicting the Passion of Christ, along with costumed participants reenacting scenes from the Old Testament. It’s a chance to see Malta’s devotion firsthand, without the hassle of navigating the crowds alone. One thing to consider is that the procession lasts over two hours, so being prepared for a lengthy but meaningful event is key. If you’re someone interested in cultural traditions, religious ceremonies, or local community celebrations, this tour should definitely be on your list.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate organized sightseeing, value local insights, and want a comfortable spot to enjoy the procession. It’s particularly good if you prefer to avoid standing in the cold or fighting for a good view, thanks to the reserved seating. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a flexible or more spontaneous experience, you might find the set schedule and guided format a bit structured.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience: Witness Malta’s most significant religious procession with full commentary from guides.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes air-conditioned transport and reserved seating for optimal viewing.
• Deep historical insight: Learn about the significance of the Passion of Christ and Old Testament scenes enacted during the procession.
• Well-organized tour: Clear pickup arrangements, knowledgeable guides, and a manageable five-hour length.
• Value for money: For $32, you get an immersive cultural event with added comfort and insider knowledge.
• Authentic community spirit: Join thousands of locals in a solemn yet vibrant celebration.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or a nearby point, usually arranged for the afternoon, with specific times communicated a day in advance. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned coach ride to Zejtun, where the procession takes place. The journey itself is smooth, and the guide accompanies you, offering insights into the significance of Good Friday in Malta, which the locals call ‘Il-Gimgha l-Kbira’.

Upon arrival, you’ll be led to your reserved seat at the procession, positioned at a vantage point that promises good views of the statues and reenactments. The life-size statues are incredibly detailed, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, crafted with care to evoke both awe and reflection. As the procession proceeds, you’ll see participants dressed in period costumes, acting out scenes from the Old Testament, engaging in a form of living history that has been part of Maltese tradition for generations.

The procession itself lasts over two hours, during which you’ll marvel at the craftsmanship of the statues and the solemnity of the community’s participation. Reviewers have noted that the event feels “magical” and “over the top” in its devotion, with Graham mentioning how locals take “Easter religious festival so seriously.”

After the procession, there’s a short wait outside the church, which some visitors found could have been better managed. Heather pointed out that more flexibility during this time — like allowing visitors to explore the church interior — might have enhanced the experience, especially since the wait can be chilly. However, overall, the organization is solid, and the seats are well-positioned for a clear view of the event.

Transportation back to your accommodation is included, making it easy to relax after the emotional experience. The entire tour lasts around five hours, allowing enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Experience of the Procession

The procession in Zejtun is a highly regarded event among locals, taking place in the afternoon as part of Malta’s most important Friday of the year. Graham’s review highlights how “the event was truly magical”, with the procession lasting over two hours, yet feeling surprisingly quick if you’re engaged in conversations with locals or simply absorbed in the spectacle.

The life-size statues are crafted with incredible detail, and you’ll appreciate their size and craftsmanship in person. They depict scenes from the Passion, such as the crucifixion and the suffering of Christ, fostering a profound sense of reverence. The costumed reenactors bring Old Testament stories to life, their costumes vibrant and accurate to traditional depictions.

Heather’s comments reveal how the organization and logistics contribute to a positive experience, praising the comfortable coach, knowledgable guide, and superb vantage point. However, she also notes that communication about pickup times could be improved, as early notification would help travelers feel more at ease.

Philip’s review echoes the sentiment that reserved seating enhances the viewing experience, though he mentions that the area around the seats isn’t protected, so strangers sometimes stand in front, obscuring the view. Despite this, he found the experience “one of a kind for a tourist to Malta” and appreciated the overall organization.

The Practicalities and Value

At $32 per person, this tour represents great value. For that price, you gain an authentic cultural experience, comfortable transportation, and a reserved spot that ensures you see the procession clearly. The price might seem modest for what you get, but it’s important to note that the experience is about more than just the sights — it’s about participating in a community tradition that Maltese people take very seriously.

The tour’s five-hour duration is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, meaningful experience without overcommitting their day. Plus, the full transportation means you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking, which can be tricky during such popular events.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for cultural enthusiasts wanting an authentic, respectful view of Maltese Easter traditions. If you prefer organized tours with insightful guides and reserved seating, you’ll find this experience well worth the modest price. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the hassle of finding a good viewing spot or standing for hours in cold weather.

Travelers interested in community events, religious ceremonies, or traditional festivals will find this tour offers a genuine glimpse into Malta’s spiritual life. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy culture will likely appreciate the structured yet heartfelt atmosphere.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more flexible, spontaneous experience or are uncomfortable with large crowds, this tour might feel a little too organized for your taste. Still, the benefits of comfortable seating and full commentary make it a compelling choice.

Final Thoughts

The Good Friday Procession in Zejtun is a powerful reminder of Malta’s religious and cultural devotion. With its reserved seating, knowledgeable guides, and full transportation, this tour offers a respectful, immersive way to engage with one of the island’s most meaningful traditions.

It strikes a good balance between comfort and authenticity. You’ll gain a front-row view of detailed statues, learn about their significance, and join locals in a shared act of faith. For a modest investment, it’s a meaningful addition to a Malta itinerary, especially if you value history, community, and cultural authenticity.

While a few logistical improvements could be made — like clearer communication about pickup times and more flexible access to the church — these are minor compared to the overall quality of the experience. If you’re seeking a well-organized, respectful, and truly Maltese event, this tour offers a heartfelt window into Malta’s Easter traditions.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, full transportation in an air-conditioned coach is included, making it easy to get to and from Zejtun.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, including pickup, travel, the procession, and return.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since availability can vary.

Are the seats reserved?
Yes, you will have reserved seating at a vantage point for the procession.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, French, and Italian.

Can I explore the church after the procession?
It depends on the guide’s discretion; Heather mentioned that exploring the church interior was eventually allowed after a brief wait.

Is there any dinner included?
No, dinner is not included in this tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet and standing for a while.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour description does not specify age restrictions, but it is suitable for anyone comfortable with standing and the length of the procession.

How do I know what time the pickup is?
You will receive an email a day before with the exact pickup point and time.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves standing and viewing a procession that lasts over two hours, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.