Mysterium Fidei Museum (St. Catherine's Monastery and Secret Garden)

Step into a hidden world beneath St. Catherine’s Monastery in Valletta at the Mysterium Fidei Museum and uncover centuries of devotion and mystery. This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the underground complex where cloistered nuns lived a life of prayer and contemplation for hundreds of years. Travel through time from the era of the Knights of St. John to the present day, visiting rooms used for work prayer restraint and eternal rest. The monastery was founded in 1575 initially to care for female orphans, and over the centuries the nuns maintained a simple life of service and reflection. The underground complex features ribbed vaulted rooms a peaceful central garden fiery ovens and an untouched burial site, offering a unique glimpse into history and religious life.

Visitors can enjoy a self-guided audio tour available in eight languages, using the Mysterium Fidei app and QR codes located throughout the monastery. The museum is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible and allows visitors to explore at their own pace within opening hours. The entry ticket includes access to the monastery the secret garden Wi-Fi and the self-guided tour. The museum is open daily except for major holidays and tickets are valid for one-time entry. This serene and fascinating site provides an opportunity to learn about faith devotion and Malta’s rich cultural heritage while walking through an authentic historical setting.