Remember the scent of jasmine on a summer’s evening? Or the echo of your laughter bouncing off the ancient walls of Mdina’s silent streets? These are the memories that Malta’s own, Stories Revisited, is bringing back to life, one photograph at a time.

Launched in 2019, Stories Revisited is a labour of love by Malta-based photographer and graphic designer, Micheal Buttigieg. His Instagram account is a treasure trove of black-and-white images, each one a story waiting to be told. Micheal’s lens captures the essence of growing up in Malta, from the 1950s to the 1990s, transporting us back to a time when life was simpler, and the island was a little less crowded.

But this isn’t just a nostalgia trip. Micheal’s work is a testament to Malta’s rich history and cultural heritage. Each photograph is a snapshot of a time gone by, a reminder of the island’s evolution. It’s no surprise that Stories Revisited has garnered a massive following, both locally and internationally.

Micheal’s photographs take us on a journey through Malta’s streets and alleyways. We see Mdina’s fortified walls, once the island’s capital, now a silent witness to history. We’re transported to Marsaxlokk, where the fishing boats bob gently on the water, and the air is filled with the cries of seagulls and the scent of the sea. We revisit the old market in Valletta, where the vendors’ stalls were a riot of colour, and the chatter of shoppers filled the air.

But Micheal’s work isn’t just about the big landmarks. He also captures the everyday details that we often overlook – the worn-out steps leading to a traditional Maltese door, the faded sign of a long-closed shop, the overgrown garden hiding a forgotten corner of the island. These are the images that truly bring the past to life.

Micheal’s work is more than just a collection of old photographs. It’s a preservation of Malta’s heritage, a record of the island’s past that’s accessible to everyone. His photographs spark conversations, trigger memories, and remind us of our history.

But Micheal isn’t just looking back. He’s also looking forward, using his work to inspire others to appreciate and protect Malta’s cultural heritage. He’s working on a book, a collection of his photographs and the stories they tell. He’s also leading walking tours, taking people through the streets he’s photographed, sharing the stories behind the images.

“Malta’s history is everywhere,” Micheal says. “You just need to know where to look. And sometimes, you need to look back to see the way forward.”