For the first time in four-and-a-half years, the magnificent doors of the Grand Master’s Palace in St George’s Square, Valletta, will be re-opening this evening, welcoming visitors to marvel at its resplendent interiors after a long and extensive restoration.
Headed by Heritage Malta, the national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage, the project included restoration works to its facade, the state rooms – including the Grand Master’s study and sitting room – the throne room, tapestry chamber, pages’ room and ambassadors’ room.
With increased access to the building, visitors can also explore the rediscovered aviary (Uccelliera) where exotic birds were kept during the Palace’s occupation, and the Piano Nobile corridors.
A significant part of the Palace’s restoration included the reinstatement of the historic Armoury in its original hall, which was previously being used by Malta’s Parliament. The impressive collection, considered among the most extensive in the world, includes the armour suits of Grand Masters Alof de Wignacourt and Jean de Valette.
In comments to TVM News, Architect David Zahra said “For a long time, the armoury was downstairs, beneath us… as part of this project we moved it upstairs, in its place.”
“Apart from the armoury we restored several other areas within the palace so that the visitor now has a holistic experience which starts at the visitors’ centre, and then go up a flight of stairs built for the benefit of the public, and see the armoury.”
Anthony Cassar, Head of the Digitisation Unit at Heritage Malta, shared in the significance of this day, saying on social media “Today is a momentous day for Heritage Malta! After four and a half years of continuous work, the Grand Master’s Palace restoration project is finally being inaugurated this evening.”
“This project, with an overall investment of over €40 million, is the biggest one ever undertaken by Heritage Malta. From planning, studies, research to the last frame or artefact put in place, the team has poured their hearts and souls into this restoration. Congrats to the entire team for their hard work and dedication!”
Main image: Heritage Malta
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