The very first 'Malta Jousting Festival and Renaissance Fair' is being organised at Fort Rinella through the collaboration between Bank of Valletta and Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna (FWA).The 23^rd and the 24^th May will see the Fort Rinella depicting the violent and warlike world, typical of 17^th century Europe. It will serve as a backdrop to one of the most glorious times in a knight's life. Jousting was a popular form of entertainment whenever political or military dignitaries stopped on their way to fighting in a war.

Charles Borg, Chief Executive Officer at Bank of Valletta met Mario Farrugia, Chairman and CEO of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna during one of the training drills. Speaking about the Jousting Festival, Mario Farrugia explained, "Work behind the scenes has been going on for months. After thorough research into the typical life of the knight in Europe and in Malta, FWA commissioned armour for the participants who will be jousting one another during a tournament." He explained that jousting is no easy feat, demanding both skill and stamina, as well as a very good rapport with the horse. "The armour is an exact replica of the one that used to be worn by knights at the time. It is very cumbursome to wear, particularly on horseback during combat. There are times when the knight is completely in the dark, and must function on instinct."

Mario Farrugia went on to show Charles Borg around the arena. The Bank's CEO expressed his satisfaction at the preparations underway. "Throughout our long-term working relationship as a Main Partner of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna, we have witnessed a platora of events that offer the public a time window on specific episodes of our ancestors' life. It is remarkable to witness first-hand the extent to which the Foundation works to give us such a vivid yet accurate picture of our rich heritage." 

The Malta Jousting Festival will run between the 23rd and 24th May from 10.00 to 17.00 hours. An outline of the Programme is provided below:

10.00 - Arming the Knights	13.00 - Cavalry skill at Arms
11.00 - Parade	14.00 - Archery competition
11.30 - Archery competition	15.00 - Joust
12.00 - Swords Display	16.00 - Trophy presentation

Further information about 'The Malta Jousting Festival' can be obtained from the Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna's website at www.wirtartna.org of from the Fondazzjoni's Facebook group. Bus no.3 from Valletta stops just outside Fort Rinella and free parking is available on site.