Unveiling Malta’s Past: ARTE’s ‘The colour of antiquity’

Imagine standing in the heart of Valletta, the sun casting a golden glow over the Grandmaster’s Palace. Now, picture this: you’re not just admiring the architecture, but you can see the original colours, vibrant and bold, as they were centuries ago. This isn’t a dream, but a reality brought to life by ARTE’s latest documentary, ‘The colour of antiquity’.

Restoring History, One Pigment at a Time

‘The colour of antiquity’ is a captivating journey into the world of historical colours, with Malta taking centre stage. The documentary, produced by ARTE, a Franco-German TV network, explores how modern technology is helping us understand and restore the original hues of our architectural heritage.

Malta, with its rich history and diverse architectural styles, provides the perfect canvas for this exploration. From the grandeur of the Baroque buildings in Valletta to the humble yet charming traditional farmhouses in rural villages like Żebbuġ, our islands are a treasure trove of colour waiting to be rediscovered.

Local Experts, Global Stage

The documentary features local experts who are at the forefront of this colourful revolution. Dr. Tim Schadla-Hall, a British archaeologist based in Malta, shares his insights on the use of colour in ancient Maltese architecture. His work, along with that of other local researchers and conservators, is helping to paint a clearer picture of our past.

One of the key locations in the documentary is the ancient Roman villa in Rabat, known for its intricate mosaics. The colours here tell a story of their own, offering a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the people who lived there nearly two thousand years ago.

Reviving the Past for the Future

The restoration of colour isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about understanding and preserving our history. As Dr. Schadla-Hall explains in the documentary, “Colour is not just about decoration, it’s about meaning.” By reviving the colours of our past, we’re not only making our historical sites more engaging and accessible, but we’re also deepening our connection to our cultural heritage.

this process is creating new opportunities for local artists and craftspeople. They’re learning traditional techniques and experimenting with natural pigments, ensuring that the art of colour restoration continues to thrive in Malta.

So, the next time you’re strolling through the cobbled streets of Mdina or admiring the intricate stonework of the Ġgantija Temples, imagine them in all their coloured glory. Thanks to documentaries like ‘The colour of antiquity’, we’re one step closer to making that imagination a reality.

You can catch ‘The colour of antiquity’ on ARTE, or stream it online. For more information on local screenings and related events, keep an eye on the Malta Heritage Trust’s website.