Cosmana Navarra House, Mdina

Cosmana Navarra House, a 17th-century aristocratic townhouse nestled in Rabat stands as a testament to both architectural elegance and the enduring spirit of its namesake, Cosmana Navarra.

Cosmana Navarra, born Guzmana Cumbo and later known by her mother's surname as Navarra, was the daughter of Gakbu Cumbo and Cornelia Cumbo (born Navarra), hailing from the illustrious Cumbo-Navarra family. Her life took a significant turn when, at the age of 25, she entered into a lifelong union with Lorenzo Cassar in the Cathedral of Imdina on June 22, 1625. Although their marriage was childless, it granted Cosmana Navarra the opportunity to dedicate her time and resources to the construction of her house and the restoration of the parish church in Rabat.

Devotion to St. Paul was a cornerstone of Cosmana Navarra's life, and her actions reflected this unwavering commitment. Her endeavors played a pivotal role in shaping the St. Paul pilgrimage site in Rabat, specifically St. Paul's Cave (Grotto), now part of the Wignacourt Museum. Her philanthropic efforts extended to the reconstruction of the parish church, which aimed to accommodate pilgrims from across Europe, marking a significant milestone in the development of tourism in Malta.

Casa Cosmana Navarra is a notable presence in Rabat's architectural landscape. In the 17th century, it was a rare example of a residential house constructed outside fortified cities like Mdina. The building itself exudes the charm of traditional Maltese townhouses. Its façade, characterized by a closed timber balcony and two neoclassical columns, adds a touch of modernity that was uncommon for its time.

Today, Casa Cosmana Navarra has been repurposed into a restaurant, welcoming the public to savor not only its culinary offerings but also the historical ambiance that permeates its walls.