Remember the old days when the only way to get to Sliema from Valletta was by the No. 3 bus? Or when you could buy a loaf of bread for just a few cents at the bakery on Strait Street? These are the memories that ‘Stories Revisited’, a new exhibition at the Malta National Museum, is bringing back to life.

‘Stories Revisited’ is not your typical museum exhibition. It’s a nostalgic journey through Malta’s recent past, told through the eyes of those who lived it. The exhibition is a collection of personal stories, photographs, and artifacts donated by Maltese people, capturing the island’s transformation from the 1950s to the present day.

Curator Dr. Maria Attard explains, “We wanted to create an exhibition that was more than just a historical record. We wanted it to be a living, breathing collection of memories that anyone could contribute to.”

One of the most striking aspects of the exhibition is the stark contrast between Malta’s past and present. Take Strait Street, for example. Once a bustling hub of activity, it was known as ‘The Gut’ due to its narrow, winding streets. Now, it’s a popular tourist spot, filled with restaurants and bars. The exhibition features old photographs of Strait Street, side by side with modern ones, highlighting the dramatic changes the area has undergone.

Similarly, the transformation of Sliema is another key theme. From a quiet fishing village to a bustling commercial hub, the changes are evident in the exhibition’s collection of photographs and memories. One contributor recalls, “Sliema was a different world back then. It was quiet, peaceful. Now, it’s always bustling with activity.”

‘Stories Revisited’ is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s a reminder of how much Malta has changed, and how much it has stayed the same. It’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Maltese people, who have weathered political storms, economic crises, and social changes with characteristic grit and determination.

Dr. Attard adds, “We hope that this exhibition will spark conversations, inspire reflection, and maybe even encourage people to share their own stories. Because after all, history is not just something that happens to us. It’s something we create, together.”

The exhibition is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, at the Malta National Museum in Valletta. Entry is free, but donations are welcome to support future exhibitions.

So, if you’re feeling nostalgic, or just curious about Malta’s past, ‘Stories Revisited’ is a must-visit. It’s not just an exhibition. It’s a conversation starter, a memory jogger, and a reminder of the power of storytelling.