During Holy Week in Malta, particularly from Maundy Thursday to Holy Saturday, churches forgo their usual bell chimes in favor of an instrument known as the ‘ċuqlajta.’
This wooden ratchet-style device, also called ‘cuqlajqa’ or ‘coklajta’ depending on the parish, has a rich historical background tracing back to the Middle Ages.
From 1282 to 1530, Malta, Gozo, and Sicily were under Aragonese rule, fostering cultural exchanges that likely introduced the ċuqlajta to the islands. With the arrival of Sicilian families and the Knights of St John, Spanish influence further solidified, contributing to the prevalence of this instrument.
In various sizes, the ċuqlajta serves different purposes, from large ones used in belfries to smaller ones for indoor church use. Some are even hand-twirled and given to children during Holy Week.
While similar wooden instruments predate Christianity, the ċuqlajta holds particular significance during Holy Week, symbolizing a departure from the usual joyous church bell rings to a more solemn sound.
However, as Easter morning arrives and the Resurrection of Christ is celebrated, the ċuqlajta is replaced by the joyous peal of church bells, signaling the return of celebration and jubilation to the community.
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