Unveiling Hidden Histories: 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 delving into its secret stories, exploring the intricate relationship between art, memory, and identity. This is precisely what the upcoming lecture series promises, offering locals and tourists alike a unique opportunity to engage with the cathedral’s rich history and cultural significance.

Art, Memory, and Identity: The Series’ Core

The lecture series, titled ‘Art, Memory, and Identity in St John’s Co-Cathedral’, is a collaboration between the cathedral and the University of Malta. It aims to explore the cathedral’s role as a cultural and historical hub, delving into the stories behind its artworks and the people who created them. Each lecture will focus on a specific aspect, from the cathedral’s architecture to the lives of its artists and patrons.

“St John’s Co-Cathedral is more than just a beautiful building,” says Dr. Maria Grazia Cassar, one of the series’ organizers. “It’s a living testament to Malta’s history, a place where art, memory, and identity intersect. We want to open up these stories to everyone, to make them accessible and engaging.”

Lectures: A Journey Through Time

The series kicks off on the 15th of October with a lecture on the cathedral’s architecture, led by Dr. Anthony Bonanno. He will guide attendees through the cathedral’s Baroque design, explaining how it reflects the cultural exchange between Malta and Europe during the Knights’ rule. Other lectures include:

• Dr. Kenneth Gauci on the life and work of Mattia Preti, the cathedral’s principal artist;
• Dr. Mark Anthony Falzon on the role of the cathedral in Malta’s religious and cultural scene;
• A joint lecture by Dr. Cassandra Sciortino and Dr. Kenneth Gauci on the cathedral’s art collection and its connection to Malta’s historical narrative.

Practical Information and Getting Involved

The lectures will be held in English and will take place in the cathedral’s Oratory, providing an intimate setting for learning and discussion. Each lecture starts at 7 pm and is followed by a Q&A session. Tickets are €5 per lecture or €15 for the entire series, with discounts available for students and senior citizens.

For those who can’t make it to Valletta, the lectures will also be live-streamed on the cathedral’s Facebook page. However, Dr. Cassar encourages everyone to attend in person if they can. “There’s something special about being in the space, about feeling the history around you as you learn about it,” she says.

So, whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone curious about Malta’s rich cultural heritage, this lecture series promises an engaging and enlightening journey. It’s a chance to uncover the stories hidden within the grandeur of St John’s Co-Cathedral, to understand how art, memory, and identity have shaped not just the cathedral, but Malta itself.

“We want people to leave each lecture feeling inspired, feeling like they’ve discovered something new,” says Dr. Cassar. “We want them to look at the cathedral, and at Malta, with fresh eyes.”