Unveiling Hidden Narratives: Art, Memory, and Identity at St John’s Co-Cathedral

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s capital city, gazing up at the grand facade of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture yourself not just as a visitor, but as an active participant, delving into the rich mix art, memory, and identity that this Baroque masterpiece holds. This is precisely what a new lecture series, ‘Art, Memory, and Identity: Exploring St John’s Co-Cathedral’, promises to deliver.

Unlocking the Stories Within

Kicking off this month, the series aims to transform our understanding of this iconic landmark. “We often see St John’s as a beautiful building, but we forget it’s a living museum,” says Dr. Kenneth Cassar, the series’ coordinator and a prominent art historian. “Each lecture will peel back a layer, revealing the stories, the memories, and the identities that have shaped this place.”

From Knights to Contemporary Art

The series, organized by the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, spans five lectures, each focusing on a different aspect of the cathedral’s history and art. From the Knights of St John who commissioned the building in the 16th century, to the contemporary art installations that grace its halls today, each session promises to shed new light on this architectural gem.

Highlights include a deep dive into the cathedral’s ornate architecture and the stories behind its famous artworks, such as Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’. Another session will explore the role of the cathedral in Malta’s religious and cultural identity, from the Knights’ rule to the present day.

Engaging the Community

But this isn’t just an academic exercise. The lectures are designed to engage the local community, encouraging Maltese people to see their heritage in a new light. “We want to foster a sense of ownership and pride,” says Dr. Cassar. “This is our history, our art, our identity. It’s important that we understand and appreciate it.”

The series also aims to attract visitors, offering them a unique insight into Malta’s rich cultural heritage. “Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and St John’s is one of its most important attractions,” says Dr. Cassar. “By deepening our understanding of this place, we can enrich the visitor experience and promote cultural tourism.”

Lectures will be held in English and Maltese, ensuring accessibility for both locals and tourists. They will take place at the cathedral itself, providing a unique opportunity to explore the building after hours.

So, are you ready to step inside the pages of history? To explore the art, the memories, and the identities that have shaped St John’s Co-Cathedral? The first lecture, ‘The Knights of St John and the Birth of the Cathedral’, takes place on the 15th of this month. Tickets are available online and at the cathedral’s ticket office.