In Malta, the Mediterranean island off the southern coast of Sicily, Maundy Thursday means a lot of walking for the devout.
According to the government's Tourism Ministry, "On Maundy Thursday, the ‘seven visits’ take place, which are the visits to seven different churches, to pay homage to the Altars of Repose. ... On Thursday evening and Friday morning, churches have their paintings draped over in purple or black velvet. The Maltese folk turn out in their thousands to visit and pray in seven different churches as traditionally observed."
Meanwhile in Maltese politics, government officials have been debating whether to allow shopping tomorrow on Good Friday – traditionally a day that all ships closed.
