From Ms C. de Giorgio

Reference is made to the letter that appeared in The Malta Independent on Sunday on 12 April.

The restriction on the shoes’ heel size worn to enter St John’s Co-Cathedral is meant to protect and conserve the unique marble inlaid tombstones that commemorate some of the most important knights of the Order of St John’s. This should be respected and everyone should appreciate this measure to protect our heritage, which is both Maltese and European.

Visitors to St John’s wearing narrow heels are provided with appropriate slippers, used in similar situations in other countries. They are also provided with a bag to carry their own shoes. This is well known by all Maltese visitors.

On occasions such as concerts, the need to wear appropriate heels is advised on the invitation. One should not feel embarrassed to change shoes as this is intended to prevent damage to this outstanding edifice that we all have a duty to conserve.

Regarding the occasion of the inauguration of the new President on 4 April, your reader failed to notice that the entire nave was covered with a protective carpet, especially in view of this very particular State occasion where guests in formal dress were expected to wear the appropriate footwear. No double standards are maintained.

Cynthia de Giorgio

Curator, St John’s Co-Cathedral