Heritage Malta hosted Claire Baluci for a spectacular concert at Bighi, that formed part of the agency’s series of events to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Caravaggio’s stay on the island.

Over 700 people attended this fund raising concert with all the proceeds being used for the restoration and conservation of four main paintings by the so called Caravaggisti artists that are found within the national collection. Part of the proceeds will also be used for the refurbishment of the hall at the National Museum of Fine Arts where these works will be exhibited.

Set against the backdrop of the grand harbour, Claire Baluci’s performance consisted of various popular classical and pop songs. During the concert, digital projections of some of Caravaggio’s important works were beamed on a large screen.

Apart from this concert, Heritage Malta is organising a number of other activities to commemorate this special anniversary. The Inquisitor’s Palace in Vittoriosa is currently hosting an exhibition of salt works depicting seven works by Caravaggio. These works were produced by two members of the Police Force, Pierre Bugeja and Mario Ebejer.

As from 19 July, the restored painting of Judith and Holofernes by Valentin Le Boulogne will be exhibited at the Contemporary Hall of the National Museum of Fine Arts. This famous painting will remain on display at the Contemporary Hall until 14 August.

Meanwhile, on 15 September, Heritage Malta will be organising a special heritage trail focusing on Caravaggio. Participants will be visiting places of interest that have a direct relationship with the artist’s stay on the island including the St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St Angelo.