On 19 April 2026, participants from Anakron Living History took part in a pilgrimage in Mellieħa dedicated to Our Lady of the Grotto, approaching the occasion through the spirit of medieval living history.

For this activity, our participants wore simple historically inspired clothing representing ordinary people and pilgrims of the medieval period. The intention was not to create a staged exhibition, but to experience the pilgrimage in a manner that reflected the importance which faith, devotion and pilgrimage would have held in everyday medieval life.

Pilgrimages formed an important part of Christian society during the Middle Ages. People from different levels of society travelled to churches, shrines and places of devotion for many reasons, including prayer, thanksgiving, penance and the fulfilment of personal vows.

Taking part in the Mellieħa pilgrimage therefore provided Anakron with an opportunity to explore a quieter and more personal aspect of medieval life, away from the armour, weapons and military displays that are often associated with historical re-enactment.

The surroundings of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa and the Grotto provided a particularly appropriate setting for the activity, allowing our participants to connect living history with a tradition of devotion that has deep roots within the locality.

Activities such as this are an important part of Anakron's approach to living history. Our aim is to understand and interpret not only how people dressed or fought, but also the beliefs, customs and experiences that shaped their daily lives.

The pilgrimage was a meaningful experience for those who participated and another opportunity for Anakron to explore Malta's medieval past through direct participation and historical interpretation.