St John’s Co-Cathedral Wind Vane Restored After Storm Harry Damage
As Storm Harry swept through Malta last winter, it left a trail of damage, including a toppled wind vane at St. John’s Co-Cathedral. But the iconic landmark is now back in its full glory, thanks to a restoration project led by MCAST students.
Stormy Night, Silent Fall
On that blustery night in January, the wind vane, a symbol of the cathedral’s rich history, couldn’t withstand the storm’s fury. It crashed down onto the cobbled streets of Republic Street, a stark reminder of nature’s power. The incident sparked concern among locals and tourists alike, who had grown accustomed to the wind vane’s constant presence.
MCAST Steps In
Enter MCAST, Malta’s leading tertiary education institution. Seeing an opportunity for their students to gain practical experience while serving the community, they took on the restoration project. A team of students from the Faculty of Applied Science, specializing in Conservation and Restoration, got to work.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to apply their skills in a real-world setting,” said Dr. Mario Bugeja, the faculty’s coordinator. “Restoring a historic artifact like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral wind vane is not just about fixing something that’s broken. It’s about preserving a piece of our heritage.”
From Damage to Restoration
The restoration process involved meticulous cleaning, careful repairs, and a fresh coat of paint. The students worked tirelessly, their dedication echoing the cathedral’s own history of craftsmanship and devotion. After weeks of painstaking work, the wind vane was ready to be hoisted back onto its pedestal.
The reinstallation ceremony was a moment of pride for the students and a relief for the cathedral’s administration. “We’re grateful to MCAST for their swift action and excellent work,” said Martin Bonnici, the cathedral’s administrator. “The wind vane is more than just an ornament. It’s a part of our cathedral’s identity.”
As the wind vane spun back into life, it marked more than just the end of a restoration project. It symbolized the resilience of Malta’s heritage in the face of nature’s challenges, and our history for future generations.
