Revisit Malta’s Childhood: ‘Stories Revisited’ Opens at National Museum

Remember the scent of freshly baked Ħobż biż-Żejt wafting through the air as you dashed home from school? Or the thrill of exploring the labyrinthine streets of Mdina, your imagination running wild with tales of knights and princesses? These are the memories that ‘Stories Revisited’, a new exhibition at the Malta National Museum of Archaeology, is eager to evoke.

‘Stories Revisited’ is not just an exhibition; it’s a nostalgic journey through the heart of Malta’s childhood. Curated by local historian Dr. Joseph Farrugia, the exhibition weaves together personal anecdotes, historical artifacts, and vintage photographs to paint a vivid portrait of growing up in Malta from the 1950s to the 1980s.

From the humble Ħamrun home where Ġużè Aquilina penned his timeless tales to the bustling streets of Valletta where children once played hopscotch, each exhibit tells a story. There’s the old-style classroom that will transport you back to the days of ink-stained fingers and wooden desks. And who could forget the traditional Maltese kitchen, complete with the iconic ‘mixja’ and the aroma of Ħelwa tat-Tork?

‘Stories Revisited’ is not merely a trip down memory lane; it’s a profound exploration of how our collective past has shaped our present. It’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Maltese culture, evolving yet rooted in tradition.

Dr. Farrugia, who spent years collecting and documenting these stories, believes that understanding our past is key to appreciating our present. “These stories are more than just memories,” he says. “They’re a part of our collective identity, our shared heritage.”

The exhibition also serves as a poignant reminder of the changes Malta has undergone. The once-bustling village square, now a quiet residential area. The old cinema, now a bustling café. It’s a stark reminder of how time marches on, leaving behind echoes of the past.

Whether you’re a born-and-bred Maltese or a newcomer eager to understand the island’s rich history, ‘Stories Revisited’ is a must-visit. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a conversation starter, a catalyst for shared memories and stories. It’s a chance to revisit the past, understand the present, and appreciate the future.

So, mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and head down to the Malta National Museum of Archaeology. Let’s revisit our stories, together.