"The restoration of the Ta' Giezu Crucifix, which was sponsored by Bank of Valletta, was successfully concluded a few days ago, less than a year following the serious damages it had sustained. It is now standing, once again, on the main altar of Ta' Giezu church, in Valletta, where it will be revered by the many Maltese who visit this church during lent and the Holy Week." This was stated by Fr Charles Vella who was entrusted with the highly elaborate and delicate work of restoring the 200-year old crucifix to its original state.

Following last year's incident, Bank of Valletta had contacted the Franciscan Friary and informed Fr Marcello Ghirlando, Rector of Ta' Giezu Franciscan Church in Valletta that the bank was willing to finance all the expenses involved in restoring the 19th century cross.

"Last year, as soon as we heard of the unfortunate incident through the media, we pledged our support to finance the restoration of this Crucifix which, apart for being an important religious icon, also has significant historical value," said Tonio Depasquale, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Valletta. "Today, less than a year later, we are delighted to see that the restoration of the Crucifix has been completed in a most professional manner. Indeed, it gives us great satisfaction that, through the financial support extended under our Community Programme, we have helped to save the Ta' Giezu Crucifix which was so badly damaged in last year's incident," commented Tonio Depasquale.

Asked on the process of the restoration works, Fr Vella explained how the crucifix was left completely in pieces except for the torso, which was broken in two distinct pieces. "The head, feet and hands too sustained serious damages and for the crucifix to be re-constructed, a clinical conservation procedure was undertaken whereby the total form and design are now supported on a new stainless steel frame. The project was quite a delicate one and the main challenge of keeping the integrity of the original state and form of the crucifix was successfully met," said Fr Vella.

"Although reports in the media had stated that the Ta' Giezu' cross had been damaged to an 'almost irreparable' state, our community of Franciscan friars were confident all along that the 200-year old prestigious artifact would be successfully restored to its former state and in time for this year's Lenten events at Ta' Giezu," concluded Fr Vella.

The crucifix, which is only exposed to the public during Lent is usually used during the religious ceremony on Good Friday. It is understood to be around 190 years old although the exact date when it was produced is not known.