‘Stories Revisited’: A Nostalgic Journey Through Malta’s Childhood Lanes

Remember the scent of figs ripening under the Mediterranean sun? Or the echo of your footsteps in the silent, cobbled streets of Mdina? Growing up in Malta was an adventure, wasn’t it? An adventure that ‘Stories Revisited’, a new exhibition at the Malta National Museum, invites us to relive.

Unpacking Memories at the Malta National Museum

Nestled in the heart of Valletta, the Malta National Museum has always been a treasure trove of our island’s history. But this time, it’s not just about ancient artifacts or grand historical events. ‘Stories Revisited’ is a personal journey, a nostalgic stroll down memory lane, curated by local artist and storyteller, Mario Vella.

“I wanted to capture the essence of growing up in Malta,” says Vella, “the little moments that make up our childhood, the ones that we often forget or take for granted. I’ve tried to bring them back to life, to share them with others.”

From ‘L-Għasel’ to ‘Il-Balcon’ – A Timeline of Maltese Childhood

The exhibition is a timeline of Maltese childhood, starting from the 1950s and winding its way through the decades. Each room is a chapter, filled with familiar scenes and stories that will make you smile, nod, and perhaps even shed a tear.

In the first room, ‘L-Għasel’, you’ll find yourself back in the 1950s, playing hopscotch on the cobbled streets of Rabat. The scent of fresh bread wafts through the air, courtesy of the traditional ‘forno’ oven in the corner. You can almost hear the laughter of children echoing through the narrow lanes.

As you move through the decades, you’ll find yourself in the 1960s ‘Il-Balcon’, where families gathered to watch the world go by. You’ll remember the taste of ‘qagħqa tal-ħnejja’ (sugarcane) and the thrill of watching the first TV sets in the neighborhood.

In the 1970s room, ‘Il-Kappella’, you’ll relive the excitement of the first Holy Communion, the pride of wearing your best clothes, and the joy of singing in the church choir. The scent of incense and the echo of hymns will transport you back to a time when Sundays were sacred.

More Than Just a Walk Down Memory Lane

‘Stories Revisited’ is more than just a nostalgic trip. It’s a reminder of how much our island has changed, and how much it has stayed the same. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, and a celebration of our shared history.

Vella hopes that the exhibition will spark conversations, inspire stories of our own, and remind us of our past. “We often focus on the big events,” he says, “but it’s the little moments that make us who we are. We should cherish them, share them, and pass them on.”

So, if you’ve ever wondered what it was like to grow up in Malta, or if you’re simply looking for a trip down memory lane, ‘Stories Revisited’ is a must-visit. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a journey into the heart of Maltese childhood.

And who knows? You might just find a piece of your own story in there.