Quick facts
- Location: St Augustine’s Square, Victoria (Rabat), Gozo
- Coordinates: 36.0425474, 14.2369472
- Rebuilt: 1662–1666 (confirmed)
- Consecrated: 12 May 1782
- Key artwork: Mattia Preti altarpiece (1694)
Why it’s worth visiting
- A quiet square church with strong Augustinian identity
- Important Baroque devotional art, including Mattia Preti
- Living worship traditions (Eucharistic adoration, St Rita devotion)
📍 Location
Location Map Coordinates 36.0425474, 14.2369472
Overview
The Church of St Augustine is a Roman Catholic church in Victoria, Gozo, attached to the Augustinian monastery. While the Augustinian presence in Gozo is traced in multiple sources to at least the 15th century, the church building visitors see today is the 17th-century rebuilding completed in 1666. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Map tip: Use 36.0425474, 14.2369472 for GPS navigation.
Full detailed history
Early Augustinian roots in Gozo
Augustinian sources describe early traditions and documentary references linking the order’s presence in Gozo to the 15th century, including jubilee-era references and later mentions of bells and cemeteries associated with St Augustine.
1652 suppression and rapid reopening
In October 1652, Pope Innocent X ordered the closure of the monastery and church, but the suppression lasted only a few months and the complex reopened through the intervention of Grand Master Lascaris.
Confirming the build: rebuilding from 1662 to 1666
Multiple sources agree that a rebuild was required because the earlier church was old and at risk of collapse. Building works began in 1662 and were completed in 1666.
Bell tower decision (1679) and convent enlargement (1690–1717)
Augustinian accounts note a decision to build a new belfry in 1679. Convent enlargement began in 1690, and the 1693 earthquake made further works urgent; designs are linked to the architect Ferdinandu (Ferdinand) Valletta, with completion noted in 1717.
Our Lady of Good Counsel and the main altar (1765–1767)
Sources state that an image of Our Lady of Good Counsel was brought from Rome in 1765. Shortly after, a benefactor funded a fine marble main altar and the placement of the image within it (dated 1767 in Augustinian accounts).
Consecration (1782)
Although the rebuilding was completed in 1666, the church was consecrated later—on 12 May 1782—by Bishop Vincenzo Labini.
Construction and architecture
Style and setting
The church is generally described as Baroque, built in local limestone, and fronting a calm square in Victoria—an intimate contrast to the busier civic streets nearby.
A conventual complex
This is not just a standalone church: it belongs to a working monastery complex that historically expanded in phases and continues to support prayer and community life.
Forecourt statues
Visit Gozo notes four large stone statues dominating the entrance area, erected in 1860, representing Our Lady Taċ-Ċintura, St Augustine, St Thomas of Villanova and St Nicholas of Tolentino.
Artworks and interior highlights
Mattia Preti altarpiece (1694)
The best-known artwork in the church is the titular painting by Mattia Preti (dated 1694), depicting St Augustine with St John the Baptist and William (Guillaume) of Aquitaine.
Devotional focus: Our Lady of Good Counsel
The main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Counsel, linked to the 1765 Roman image and later altar works described in Augustinian and Visit Gozo summaries. }
Modifications and restoration
Belfry rebuilding (1929) and church alterations (1931)
Augustinian accounts record modernising works linked to the early 20th century: the belfry was rebuilt in 1929, and in 1931 alterations were made around the choir/organ areas, including closing former balcony spaces and adding large paintings by Briffa. These changes also led to the decision to dismantle and enlarge the main altar.
Security and heritage protection (2007 theft)
Modern reports note an incident in 2007 when thieves stole ornaments from the church associated with the devotional image, highlighting the importance of safeguarding movable heritage in active churches.
Religious and community use today
St Augustine Church remains active for worship and devotions. Local reporting highlights Eucharistic devotion (including periods of adoration), and the presence of strong devotion to St Rita of Cascia with organised preparation traditions. The monastery is also described as hosting individuals and groups who want days of prayer and meditation.
Visiting the Church of St Augustine
How to get there
The church is a short walk within central Victoria (Rabat), near main streets and other major churches. Look for St Augustine’s Square.
Best time to visit
- Morning for quieter viewing and prayer
- During major devotions (ask locally for times, especially around St Rita)
- Late afternoon for softer light on the façade
FAQ
Was St Augustine Church really built between 1662 and 1666?
Yes. Independent summaries (including the Augustinians’ own page and local reporting) state the rebuild began in 1662 and was completed in 1666.
What is the most important artwork inside?
The titular altarpiece by Mattia Preti (dated 1694) is commonly cited as the church’s major artistic highlight.
Is it part of a monastery?
Yes. The church forms part of the Augustinian monastery complex in Victoria.