St Luke's Garrison Chapel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Luke's Garrison Chapel |
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Il-Knisja ta' San Luqa
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 St Luke's Garrison Chapel
Location in Malta
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| 35°54′26.6″N 14°30′33.9″E / 35.907389°N 14.509417°E | |
| Location | Sliema |
| Country | Malta |
| Previous denomination | Church of England |
| History | |
| Status | Secularised |
| Founded | 16 January 1910 |
| Dedication | St Luke |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Offices |
| Completed | 1910 |
The St Luke's Garrison Chapel was once a church for the Anglican faith. It was part of the Tigné Barracks and Cambridge Battery, which were used by the British army until 1979. Today, the building is no longer a church and is used as offices.
Contents
History of St Luke's Chapel
Building the Chapel
The first stone for St Luke's Chapel was placed on January 16, 1910. This important event was done by the Governor of Malta, Sir Leslie Rundle. The chapel was built to serve the British soldiers who were stationed at the Tigné Barracks. This meant only military people could go inside.
The chapel was finished a few months later. Its very first church service was held on November 27, 1910. This day was known as Advent Sunday. The chapel was officially dedicated by William Collins, who was the Bishop of Gibraltar.
Chapel During World War II
During World War II, the chapel was badly damaged. It was declared unsafe for use. Because of this, people who wanted to attend church services had to go to the nearby Holy Trinity church.
After the British Army Left
The chapel continued to be used until 1979. This was when the British forces left Malta. After they left, the chapel and the military area around it were empty for a while.
In the 1980s, the chapel was sometimes used for other activities. It hosted meetings for a sports association called Assoċjazzjoni Sportiva Tigne. It also held cultural events and rock concerts by a group called Rokarja AST. Various plays were also performed there. In the early 1990s, the chapel was even used for tai chi training and ballroom dancing classes.
Restoration and New Purpose
Restoration work on the chapel began in 2003. Other parts of the Tigné peninsula and Manoel Island were also being restored at that time. Today, the building is no longer a church. It is now used as offices.
Inside the Chapel
The inside of the church had several important parts. These included a chancel, two aisles, and a nave. There was also an organ and a vestry.
Altar and Decorations
The main altar was made of stone. It was surrounded by pillars that looked like the ancient Corinthian style. These pillars formed three decorative panels. The rail around the altar was decorated with Maltese crosses.
Flooring Details
The floor in the chancel area was made of red tiles. There were also white marble steps leading up to the altar. During the restoration work, the original floor was kept just as it was.
