Heritage Malta is organising two events to mark Victory Day, which symbolises the end of the Great Siege in 1565 as well as the day in 1943 when Italy surrendered during World War II, resulting in the end of the bombing of the Maltese islands.

For this occasion, Heritage Malta will be displaying the two versions of the George Cross which was awarded to the Maltese people during the Second World War. There will also be a copy of the letter from King George VI to the islands’ Governor, Lieutenant General Sir William Dobbie, at the War Museum in Valletta. The letter was sent to the Governor conferring the George Cross so as to bear witness to the heroism and devotion of the people of Malta during the early parts of the war.

The two copies of the George Cross were dispatched to Malta during the war – one was carried by an aircraft and the copy on a ship as a back-up in case the first one failed to make it safely. Fortunately, both reached Malta. Apparently the one sent on an aircraft was the one which was eventually officially presented, and was inscribed at the back. The inscription reads: “To the Island of Malta 15 April 1942”. This medal is kept by Heritage Malta while the other medal which does not have an inscription is on permanent display in this museum. This will be the first time that the medals will be shown together.

For the same occasion, Heritage Malta is putting up an exhibition of coins, medals and maps in use in 1565, in the State Rooms at The Palace in Valletta.

The exhibitions will be open to the public between 7 and 19 September from 9am to 5pm. On Saturday, entrance to the two sites will be at half price. Entrance to the War Museum will be 50c for adults; senior citizens and children enter free of charge. Entrance to the State Rooms will be Lm1 for adults, and 50c for senior citizens, while children under 16 years can enter free of charge.