Qrendi became an independent parish in 1618, and just two years later, villagers began building their first parish church. The project took sixty years to complete, only for the church to be deemed too small by the time it was finished. Plans for a new, larger church were drawn up by renowned Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà, with much of the responsibility for its construction taken on by local priest Rev. Domenico Formosa. On 17 January 1699, tragedy struck when Rev. Formosa fell from the scaffolding while encouraging villagers to help with the construction. He died on the spot. A small cross etched into the church’s façade marks the spot where he fell, a loving tribute to the man who quite literally gave his life to build it.

The church also houses notable artworks, including the painting of the Assumption of Our Lady behind the main altar, completed by celebrated Maltese artist Giuseppe Calì when he was nearly 70.