House of Calleja - Calleja Coat of Arms

The House of Calleja

See: My Ancestors - House of Calleja - House of Caruana - House of Mercieca - Pacifico Calleja - Antonia Galea Mercieca - HMS Glorious - SS Ashbury - Victor B. Caruana - Pietru Caxaro - Theophilactus I - Arnulf of Metz - Words of My Mother and Father - Family Photo Gallery

Welcome to the House of Calleja.

In this special space, we celebrate the enduring legacy of the Calleja family. It all began with my paternal grandparents, Annunziato (Lonzu) Calleja and Teresa Bugeja Calleja, who united in marriage on May 15, 1898, within the sacred halls of the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady in Mosta, Malta.

My grandparents’ bond lasted an impressive 58 years, and they raised five children who not only became the pillars of our family but also played a significant role in shaping our legacy: Joseph, Carmello, Pacifico (my father), Maria, and Zarena Calleja.

My grandfather’s dedication to his work as a construction worker was matched only by his commitment to his faith. He was the caretaker of the chairs at the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, ensuring that worshippers found solace and comfort within its sacred walls.

As we honor the memory of Annunziato and Teresa Calleja, we also celebrate the rich tapestry of our family’s history and the values that continue to guide us today: tradition, unity, and love. Through their legacy, we find inspiration to uphold these values, which define us as the House of Calleja.

Calleja Coat of Arms

Calleja is a surname found in Spain and Malta. It is unclear whether the Maltese and Spanish surnames are related or a coincidence, perhaps caused by romanization.

Motto - "I Was Crowned But Not Here"

Calleja Family Portrait

From Left to Right: oldest son: Joseph Calleja, daughter: Maria Calleja, Mother: Teresa Bugeja Calleja, son: Carmello Calleja, Father : Annunziato (Lonzu) Calleja, daughter: Zarena Calleja, son: Pacifico Calleja (My Father)

Calleja's Family Tree

Rotunda of Mosta

The Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, lovingly referred to as the Rotunda of Mosta or the Mosta Dome, stands tall as a treasured emblem of faith and tradition in Mosta, Malta. As a Roman Catholic parish church and basilica dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, it embodies the unwavering devotion of the local community. Designed in the neoclassical style by Giorgio Grognet de Vassé, its construction spanned from 1833 to the 1860s, bearing witness to the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. Across generations, this sacred sanctuary has been a cornerstone of spiritual life, fostering profound connections among its parishioners.

Among those who dedicated themselves to the church's service was my grandfather, Annunziato (Lonzu) Calleja, affectionately known as the caretaker of the chairs, or "tas-siggijiet" in Maltese. His steadfast commitment to ensuring the comfort of worshippers during services left an indelible mark on the community, earning him a beloved nickname synonymous with his cherished role.

Santa Marija has been a sanctuary for countless families, including my own, witnessing the sacred rites of baptism and marriage that bind generations together. Within its holy confines, my father and his siblings received the sacrament of baptism, and it was here that my parents embarked on their marital journey, exchanging vows on January 11th, 1942. Their union marked the beginning of a shared life, and a continuation of the enduring legacy of faith and devotion passed down through generations within the hallowed walls of the Rotunda of Mosta.

The Story Annunziato (Lonzu) Calleja

Annunziato Calleja, known affectionately as "Lonzu," was born on April 14, 1877, in Mosta, Malta, to Venerando Calleja and Felicita Baldacchino. On May 15, 1898, he married Teresa Bugeja at the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady in Mosta, a union that would last 58 years. Together, they raised five children—Joseph, Carmello, Pacifico Maria, and Zarena—who became the foundation of their family's enduring legacy.

Lonzu worked as a construction laborer, dedicating himself to his craft and faith. He was the caretaker of the chairs at the Basilica, ensuring worshippers could gather in comfort and peace. His devotion to this role earned him the nickname "tas-siggijiet," meaning "of the chairs" in Maltese.

In 1921, Lonzu traveled to New York City with his son Pacifico, where he worked at the famed Childs Restaurant for a year before returning to Malta. This brief journey was a testament to his willingness to explore opportunities beyond his homeland while staying connected to his roots.

One of Lonzu's most remembered acts of service occurred during World War II. On April 9, 1942, a bomb struck the Rotunda of St. Marija Assunta in Mosta. While pouring rain, Lonzu climbed to the top of the Basilica to cover the hole left by the bomb, ensuring the safety and sanctity of the church..

Annunziato Calleja passed away peacefully in his sleep in June 1957. His legacy lives on, especially in Mosta, where he is still fondly remembered as "Lonzu tas-siggijiet," a man whose faith, dedication, and service left an indelible mark on his community.