Heritage Malta is holding an open day at the Institute of Conservation and Management of Cultural Heritage and the Conservation Division in Bighi, Kalkara.

The open day will provide a Sunday outing with a difference, where families can spend quality time together learning about the importance of restoration and conservation. Visitors on the day will have the opportunity to walk through the Diagnostic Science Laboratories; enter all the Conservation Laboratories which include paintings and polychrome sculpture, ceramics, glass, metals and stone, textiles and books and paper; converse with the conservators and scientists manning the laboratories; visit the Documentation Section; visit the Institute’s library; learn about the courses offered at the Institute (short-courses, vocational, undergraduate and post-graduate) and walk through the grounds which enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Valletta fortifications.

Other activities on the day will include a presentation on the institute and the laboratories; on-site stone restoration and a learning programme for children aged between 8-12 years. This particular activity will take place during four separate sessions and is limited to a maximum of 16 participants for each session. Those interested in participating in the learning programme are to pre-book their place by calling 2395-4239. Participation is against a donation of e3 per participant (e2 for children of Heritage Malta members).

During the Open Day, School of Art students will be drawing and painting various works on site, a book stall will be set up and the canteen will be open to all visitors on the day.

The event will take place on Sunday, 31 May between 9am and 5pm. Entrance is free.