Fun facts you might not know about: Luqa

Welcome to Luqa, a small but historically rich town in Malta with plenty of interesting stories to tell. From ancient landmarks to modern-day marvels, Luqa offers a unique glimpse into Maltese culture, heritage, and everyday life. Here are some fascinating facts you might not know about this charming community.

Small Town with a Famous Airport

Luqa is a small town with about 6,100 people living there. It is best known for Malta International Airport, which started as a Royal Air Force base in the 1930s and was the first in Malta to have a paved runwaySt Andrew’s Parish Church

At the heart of Luqa is St Andrew’s Parish Church. It became its own parish in 1634 and has a stunning mix of Mannerist and Baroque style. Inside you’ll find paintings and statues made by famous Maltese artists like Mattia Preti and others from the 1600s

Luqa’s Musical Traditions and Festivities

Luqa is proud to host the L’Unione Philharmonic Society, the first band in the town, founded in 1880. It’s still playing music today at festivals and processions. The main festa honouring St Andrew is held on the first Sunday of July with fireworks, music, and parades

The Colonna Mediterranea

You might spot a giant, colourful contemporary sculpture near Luqa Airport called the Colonna Mediterranea. Locals call it “the Luqa Monument”. It caused quite a stir because some people say it looks like a… well, let’s say a very strange shape! It was built in 2006, and the debate around it attracted international news

The Lost Temple of Debdieba

Not far from the airport there used to be a temple called Debdieba, possibly from around 3000 BC. Most of it was destroyed when the runway was extended, but it was once nicknamed “the place of the echo” because shouting there made the hills echo back the sound