Ever Seen This Inside A Church? Traditional Katafalk Set Up In Valletta

A traditional katafalk has been set up inside the Jesuits' Church in Valletta to mark All Souls' Day, known in Maltese as L-Għid tal-Erwieħ.

But what exactly is a katafalk?

At first glance, it might look like a decorated coffin or a funeral monument. However, there's no body inside!

A katafalk is a traditional structure used in Catholic churches during special prayers and religious ceremonies to remember people who have passed away.

It's a custom that goes back centuries and forms part of Malta's rich religious traditions.

On Monday, 2nd November, the Jesuits' Church commemorated All Souls' Day with a special Requiem Mass, followed by a traditional ceremony at the katafalk.

The Jesuits' Church Foundation also shared a touching message encouraging everyone to remember their departed family members, friends and loved ones.

All Souls' Day is still widely observed in Malta, with families visiting cemeteries, placing flowers on graves and lighting candles in memory of their loved ones.

It's another fascinating tradition that forms part of Malta's cultural and religious heritage!

Have you ever seen a katafalk inside a church?

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Credit: The Jesuits' Church Foundation