Malta’s Caravaggio Wing Wins UK Museum Award
Caravaggio’s Malta Masterpiece Takes Centre Stage in UK
Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s bustling capital, gazing up at the grand Baroque facade of St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Now, picture one of its hidden gems, the Caravaggio Wing, taking centre stage in the UK. This is not a dream, but a reality that has just unfolded, as the wing has been crowned the ‘Best Permanent Exhibition’ at the Museums + Heritage Awards in London.
From Hidden Treasure to International Acclaim
The Caravaggio Wing, home to the iconic ‘Beheading of Saint John the Baptist’ painting, has been a local treasure for centuries. Yet, it’s only recently that its international significance has been truly recognised. The Museums + Heritage Awards, a prestigious event in the UK’s cultural calendar, honoured the wing for its exceptional curation and conservation efforts.
But how did a small wing in a Baroque cathedral in Malta end up winning such a prestigious award? The answer lies in a combination of local passion, international collaboration, and a commitment to preserving Malta’s artistic heritage.
Malta’s Artistic Heritage in the Spotlight
The Caravaggio Wing’s journey to international recognition began with a comprehensive restoration project in 2014. Led by local experts and supported by international bodies like the Getty Foundation, the project aimed to restore the wing to its former glory. The result was a stunning space that not only showcased Caravaggio’s masterpiece but also told the story of Malta’s artistic heritage.
The wing’s curation, a blend of local knowledge and international best practices, has been a key factor in its success. Dr. Kenneth Cassar, the cathedral’s curator, has been instrumental in this process. His dedication to preserving and promoting Malta’s artistic heritage has been pivotal in putting the Caravaggio Wing on the global map.
“This award is a testament to Malta’s commitment to preserving its artistic heritage,” says Dr. Cassar. “It’s a small island with a big story to tell, and we’re proud to be sharing that story with the world.”
What’s Next for the Caravaggio Wing?
With the international spotlight now firmly on the Caravaggio Wing, what’s next for this local treasure? Dr. Cassar hints at further collaborations and exhibitions, both locally and internationally. “We’re looking forward to building on this momentum,” he says. “We want to continue to tell Malta’s story, to inspire both locals and visitors alike.”
So, the next time you find yourself in Valletta, take a moment to step inside St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Look beyond the grandeur, and you’ll find a piece of Malta’s history that’s now making waves on the international stage.
