Discover Malta’s Heritage: Lecture Series at St John’s Co-Cathedral

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s bustling capital, surrounded by the grandeur of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture yourself not just admiring its opulent interior, but delving into the stories behind its masterpieces, exploring themes of art, memory, and identity. This is exactly what’s in store for you this autumn, as the cathedral hosts an intriguing lecture series.

The series, titled ‘Memory and Identity in Art’, kicks off in October and promises to shed light on the cathedral’s remarkable collection. Curated by Dr. Kenneth Cassar, an art historian and lecturer at the University of Malta, the lectures will explore the stories behind some of the cathedral’s most famous artworks, including those by Caravaggio and Mattia Preti.

“St John’s Co-Cathedral is not just a building, it’s a living museum,” says Dr. Cassar. “Each artwork tells a story about Malta’s history, culture, and identity. Through this series, we invite the public to explore these narratives and engage with our artistic heritage.”

The series will look the cathedral’s rich history, from its 16th-century origins to its role in contemporary art. One of the highlights will be a lecture dedicated to Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’, one of the artist’s most celebrated works.

But the series won’t stop at the past. It will also explore how contemporary artists, like Austin Camilleri and Alexandra Pace, engage with themes of memory and identity in their work, often challenging traditional narratives and pushing artistic boundaries.

“We want to show that art history is not just about the past,” Dr. Cassar explains. “It’s about understanding our present and shaping our future.”

The series will combine lectures with guided tours of the cathedral, offering participants a unique opportunity to see the artworks up close and engage with the speakers. Each lecture will be followed by a Q&A session, encouraging debate and discussion.

The lectures will be held in English and Maltese, reflecting the bilingual nature of Malta’s culture. They will take place on Tuesday evenings, starting at 6:30 PM, providing a perfect after-work activity for culture enthusiasts.

So, whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about Malta’s cultural heritage, this lecture series is a must-attend event. It’s not just about learning; it’s about experiencing art, history, and identity in a whole new light.