MCAST Restores St. John’s Co-Cathedral Wind Vane After Storm Harry
Have you ever walked past St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta and marveled at the intricate wind vane perched atop its grand dome? Well, you might have noticed something amiss after Storm Harry swept through Malta last month. The wind vane, a symbol of the cathedral’s resilience, was left damaged and askew. But fear not, history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, for it’s being restored to its former glory by none other than MCAST students.
Storm Harry’s Impact
Storm Harry, with its gusts reaching up to 100km/h, left its mark on the wind vane, causing it to lean and sustain damage. The wind vane, a weather vane indicating the direction of the wind, has been a part of the cathedral’s scene since the 17th century. It’s not just an ornament; it’s a functional piece of history that has weathered countless storms, quite literally.
MCAST Steps In
MCAST, Malta’s leading institute for technical and vocational education, has taken on the task of restoring the wind vane. Their team of students and lecturers, specializing in conservation and restoration, are working tirelessly to ensure the wind vane is restored to its former glory. This isn’t just a restoration project; it’s a lesson in history and craftsmanship for the students involved.
The project is being led by Dr. Mario Buhagiar, a lecturer at MCAST who is no stranger to such projects. He’s been involved in the restoration of various historical artifacts and buildings around Malta. “This is a unique opportunity for our students to work on a piece of Malta’s history,” he says. “It’s not just about restoring a wind vane; it’s about preserving our past for future generations.”
What’s Next?
The restoration process involves careful cleaning, repairing the damage caused by the storm, and ensuring the wind vane is functional once again. The team is also taking this opportunity to study the wind vane’s history and the materials used in its construction. Once completed, the wind vane will be reinstalled, ready to face whatever weather Malta’s Mediterranean climate throws at it.
So, the next time you’re walking along Republic Street in Valletta, keep an eye out for the wind vane atop St. John’s Co-Cathedral. It’s not just a piece of architecture; it’s a testament to Malta’s history and the dedication of those who preserve it.
