The month of September is very special for Senglea and the Maltese Islands since it marks some major historical events: the end of the Great Siege (September 8, 1565); the surrender of Italy (September 8, 1943); the uprising against the French and their withdrawal from the island (September 2, 1798 and September 5, 1800)

Victory Day, September 8, in Senglea a has great significance as we celebrate the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady (Maria Bambina). The statue of the Bambina is indeed unique due to the fact that it is very petite.

The statue is shrouded in legend. Was it a figurehead from a shipwrecked schooner which was salvaged and brought to Malta many years ago?

The adorned statue now rules over the people of Senglea; it is just majestic and its facial expression just goes through to your heart. Hundreds of people gathered outside the basilica on September 8 this year and watched as the statue joined the procession; their rapturous applause must have echoed for miles around.

The favourite part of the procession is when ordinary people carry the precious Bambina from Two Gates Street down the steep steps of Macina Street then onto the seafront. You could hear a pin drop as those carrying the statue walk very carefully and slowly. Looking at the expressions on people’s faces one could see their anxiety until it arrives safely. At this point the band plays the Bambina anthem accompanied by all those present. The setting, with the lights across Dockyard Creek and the Vittoriosa Marina, is magical.

This year, as in the past five years, the Senglea Regatta Club won the Regatta. This was the icing on the cake for all Sengleans; indeed one of the most touching moments is when the Bambina returns home to the basilica and the Regatta Shield is placed at her feet as a sign of great devotion to Our Lady.

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