Attractions in Malta: PlacesMosta and its impressive Rotunda
One of the better known attractions in Malta, is the famous Mosta Dome.
The actual town Mosta, is your typical busy urban town. The town got it’s name from the Arabic word “musta”, which means centre.
In fact, the town is situated right at the centre of Malta and apart from the beautiful Parish Church, there’s not much else to see here.
Just a tiny hamlet in medieval times, Mosta started to develop in the seventeenth century and today has the third-largest population on the Maltese islands.
Mosta Dome: One of the top attractions in Malta
The Rotunda or Mosta Dome is so impressive that it has made Mosta, one of the top Malta tourist attractions. There are more than 350 churches on the Maltese islands, so what makes the Rotunda one of the most popular from all Malta churches? It’s sheer size! The dome is said to be the third largest unsupported church dome in Europe. Designed by Maltese architect Giorgio Grognet de Vasse, the church was built between 1833 and 1860, from funds raised by the Maltese people. Tourists also visit the Rotunda to admire the stunning blue, gold and white interior of the church. The Rotunda’s circular design is based on the Pantheon of Rome. The dome has an external height of 61 metres, with a diameter of 39.6 metres. It is so large that it is visible from most parts of Malta. 
It’s a miracle! Another interesting attraction at the Mosta dome is the World War II bombing incident. On the 9th of June, 1942 during WWII, three bombs struck the dome. About 300 people were waiting to hear Mass. Two of the bombs bounced off the dome and ended up on the square. A third bomb pierced through the dome and rolled across the floor of the church. Miraculously, the bomb did not explode. The other two bombs did not explode either! And so, no one was hurt. A replica of the bomb that pierced through the dome, can be seen in the sacristy. 
Getting there Bus #56 and #58 from Valletta Bus #65 from Sliema Bus #86 and #427 from Bugibba The Rotunda is open daily from 5.00am till noon & from 3.00pm to 8.00pm and entrance is free.
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