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

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, the sun casting a warm glow on the grand facade of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture stepping inside, not just to marvel at the opulent Baroque interior, but to explore the very essence of what makes us Maltese. This is exactly what the ‘Art, Memory, Identity’ lecture series promises, kicking off this October.

Delving into the Canvas of History

Organised by the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, this series aims to shed light on the art and architecture that adorns the cathedral’s walls, and the stories they tell about our collective memory and identity. The lectures, held in English and Maltese, will guide us through the cathedral’s rich history, from its inception in 1572 to its role as a symbol of Maltese resilience today.

Kicking off the series is Dr. Kenneth Gauci, a familiar face in Maltese cultural circles, who will explore the cathedral’s origins and its role in the Order of St John’s grand designs for Valletta. Subsequent lectures will look specific artworks, such as the renowned ‘Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’ by Caravaggio, and the intricate tapestries that line the Oratory.

Memory in Stone and Canvas

But this is more than just a history lesson. Each lecture will also explore how these artworks have shaped our collective memory and identity. How have they influenced our understanding of ourselves as a people? How have they changed over time, reflecting the shifts and turns of Maltese history?

Dr. Gauci explains, “The cathedral is not just a building; it’s a living testament to our past. Through its art, we can trace the threads of our history, our culture, our very identity.”

Identity in the Present Tense

The series will also look at how we engage with these artworks today. How do we, as modern Maltese, interact with these historical pieces? What do they mean to us now, in a world that’s changed so much since they were first created?

For Dr. Gauci, these questions are at the heart of the series. “We’re not just looking back,” he says, “we’re also looking forward. We’re asking, what does this art tell us about who we are today, and who we might become?”

And for those who can’t make it to the lectures, fear not. The series will also be live-streamed, ensuring that no one misses out on this unique exploration of our shared heritage.