Caravaggio Wing in Valletta Wins UK Museum Award
Caravaggio’s Masterpiece in Valletta Crowned UK’s Best Museum Project
Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s capital, gazing at a masterpiece that’s just been crowned the UK’s best museum project. This isn’t a dream; it’s the reality of visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral’s newly refurbished Caravaggio Wing. The Museums + Heritage Awards jury, based in the UK, has just honoured this local gem, and it’s high time we Maltese celebrate our own.
From Ruins to Renaissance
In 2016, the Caravaggio Wing was a crumbling shell, a stark contrast to the cathedral’s grandeur. But with a €1.5 million EU grant, the Malta Heritage Trust embarked on a restoration project that would transform this space. Three years later, the wing reopened, revealing Caravaggio’s masterpiece, ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’, in all its glory.
The restoration wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was about preserving our history and sharing it with the world. The wing now boasts state-of-the-art climate control systems, improved lighting, and a sleek, modern design that complements the Baroque art within.
Caravaggio’s Malta: More Than Just a Stopover
Caravaggio’s time in Malta was brief, but his impact was profound. Between 1607 and 1608, he painted three works for St. John’s Co-Cathedral, including ‘The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’. These paintings are more than just art; they’re a testament to Malta’s role in the Baroque era.
Today, the Caravaggio Wing stands as a reminder of our rich artistic heritage. It’s a story of a small island that punched above its weight, attracting one of Europe’s greatest artists. It’s a story that resonates with Maltese pride, and it’s a story that’s now being recognised beyond our shores.
Malta’s Minister for National Heritage, Jose Herrera, summed it up perfectly: “This award is a testament to the quality of work done by our cultural heritage sector… It’s a great honour for Malta and for St. John’s Co-Cathedral.”
Visiting the Caravaggio Wing
So, what are you waiting for? The Caravaggio Wing is open daily, except Sundays, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Tickets are €10 for adults, but it’s free for residents on Sundays and public holidays. It’s more than just a visit to a museum; it’s a journey through time, a celebration of our artistic heritage, and a chance to see why the UK thinks we’re doing something right.
