Unveiling Hidden Histories: Lecture Series Illuminates 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 façade of St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture stepping inside, not just to marvel at the opulent Baroque interior, but to look the rich mix art, memory, and identity that these walls have witnessed for centuries. This is precisely what a new lecture series, titled ‘Art, Memory, and Identity in Malta’s Historic Spaces’, aims to achieve.

Exploring the Cathedral’s Hidden Stories

Kicking off this month, the series promises to shed light on the often-overlooked narratives behind the cathedral’s stunning artworks and architecture. Organised by the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation and the University of Malta, the lectures will explore themes ranging from the cathedral’s role in Malta’s historical and cultural scene to the personal stories behind the masterpieces that adorn its walls.

Dr. Kenneth Cassar, one of the series’ organisers and a lecturer in Art History at the University of Malta, explains, “St. John’s Co-Cathedral is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living museum, a testament to Malta’s complex history and cultural heritage. Through this lecture series, we want to unlock its secrets, one lecture at a time.”

From Caravaggio to the Knights: A Journey Through Time

The series will commence with a lecture on the cathedral’s architectural history, taking participants on a journey from its inception during the Knights’ rule to its present-day restoration efforts. Subsequent lectures will look the lives and works of the artists who left their mark on the cathedral, including the renowned Caravaggio.

One lecture, titled ‘Caravaggio in Malta: The Art of Subversion’, will explore the controversial artist’s time in Malta and the impact his work had on the island’s cultural scene. Another, ‘The Knights of St. John: Art, Power, and Identity’, will examine the role of the Knights of St. John in commissioning and collecting art, and how this shaped the cathedral’s artistic legacy.

Engaging with the Past, Shaping the Future

The lecture series is not just about looking back, but also about engaging with the present and shaping the future. Each lecture will be followed by a Q&A session, providing attendees with the opportunity to discuss and debate the topics at hand. the series aims to foster a greater appreciation for Malta’s cultural heritage, encouraging locals and visitors alike to engage with and preserve these historic spaces.

Dr. Cassar adds, “This lecture series is not just for art enthusiasts. It’s for anyone who wants to understand Malta’s past, engage with its present, and help shape its future. After all, our history is not just something to be admired; it’s something to be lived.”

The ‘Art, Memory, and Identity in Malta’s Historic Spaces’ lecture series will take place at St. John’s Co-Cathedral on the last Tuesday of each month, starting in October. Tickets are €5 for the general public and free for students and members of the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation.