An old photograph of the 'Madonna tal-Blat' Chapel overlooking Ħondoq ir-Rummien.
A manuscript written between 1764 and 1778 by Friar Pelagio Mifsud Piscopo, a Capuchin from Żebbuġ, offers interesting insight into the origins of this small chapel. In his writings, he notes that the chapel was built in 1760 in honour of the Blessed Virgin.
According to the manuscript, the chapel was funded through the devotion of Michele Spiteri together with another man named Andrea Spiteri, possibly a relative. Their contribution led to the construction of this humble rural chapel overlooking the channel between Gozo and Comino.
Local legend also connects the chapel closely with the people of Comino. It is said that the chapel was intentionally positioned facing the island so that, during rough weather when crossing by boat was impossible, Comino residents could still follow Holy Mass from afar. At the moment of the elevation of the Host, they would look towards the chapel and spiritually take part in the liturgy from across the water.
The chapel is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, although it is also linked to St Andrew, patron saint of fishermen, whose image once featured in the altar’s frontpiece and today is kept in the parish church. The statue found in the niche represents Our Lady Star of the Sea (Stella Maris), while old maritime graffiti of ships can still be traced on the façade.