MCAST Restores St. John’s Co-Cathedral Wind Vane After Storm Harry Damage
Have you ever looked up at the grand facade of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta and wondered about the intricate details that make it so iconic? One of those details, the wind vane, has been given a new lease of life after being damaged by Storm Harry last year. Thanks to the dedicated team at MCAST, this historic symbol is now ready to weather the next storm.
Storm Damage and the Call for Restoration
In January 2021, Storm Harry swept through Malta, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among the casualties was the wind vane atop St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a symbol of Malta’s rich history and a beloved landmark for locals and tourists alike. The damage was significant, and the call for its restoration was swift and unanimous.
MCAST Steps In
The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) answered the call, taking on the project as a labor of love. Their team of skilled craftsmen and engineers set to work, determined to restore the wind vane to its former glory. The project was a testament to MCAST’s commitment to preserving Malta’s cultural heritage while also providing students with practical experience in restoration techniques.
“This was more than just a restoration project for us,” said Dr. Ing. Joseph Farrugia, MCAST’s Director of Engineering. “It was an opportunity to teach our students about our cultural heritage and to pass on these skills to the next generation.”
Restoration Process and Challenges
The restoration process was complex, involving the careful removal of the damaged wind vane, the creation of a new one using traditional methods, and the installation of a new mechanism to ensure it functions accurately. The team faced several challenges along the way, including sourcing the right materials and ensuring the new wind vane was an exact replica of the original.
“The most challenging part was finding the right bronze to match the original,” said Mario Formosa, one of the MCAST craftsmen who worked on the project. “But we were determined to get it right, no matter what.”
The team’s dedication paid off. After months of painstaking work, the restored wind vane was finally hoisted back onto the cathedral, ready to face whatever weather Malta’s Mediterranean climate might throw at it.
Reinstallation and Celebration
The reinstallation of the wind vane was a cause for celebration. A small ceremony was held at the cathedral, attended by MCAST staff and students, representatives from the cathedral, and local dignitaries. The wind vane was blessed by the Archbishop of Malta, ensuring its protection and guidance in the years to come.
“Today is a proud day for MCAST,” said Dr. Farrugia at the ceremony. “We’ve not only restored a piece of Malta’s history, but we’ve also equipped our students with the skills they need to preserve our cultural heritage for future generations.”
As the wind vane spins gently in the breeze, it’s a reminder of Malta’s resilience and its rich history. It’s also a testament to the skill and dedication of MCAST’s team, who have ensured that this historic symbol will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come.
