Archbishop Charles Scicluna today blessed a new bell which was hoisted up to the top of the Mdina Cathedral, replacing one which had been there for over 500 years.

The bell was the second oldest ne at the Cathedral, with the oldest having been taken down back in 2008, which is now kept in the Cathedral museum. This bell will also be taken to the museum.

The bell in question is rung automatically as the Church clock strikes certain times, and is situated in one of the Cathedral’s twin belfries. The bell was cast by the bellfounder Magister Antoninus in Tortoreto in 1499. This is the only extant bell by this bellfounder.

Repairing the bell was possible however considering its considerable age, the recommendation to set aside the bell was made.  The new bell weighs 170kgs and sounds the note D sharp, thus replicating the strike note of the 1499 bell. The bell is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and St. Paul titular Saint of Mdina Cathedral.

The bell carries a Latin inscription by Monsignor John Azzopardi which translates to: “That which was cast in 1499 by Master founder Antoninus of Tortorito in the year 1499 is being substituted by this which was cast by the Paccard foundry of France in the year 2016.”

Photos Michael Camilleri