Gozitans have shaped the things around them for the purpose of worship and the work of generations of Gozitans is now exhibited at the new museum Il-Hagar – the Heart of Gozo, situated at St George’s Square, Victoria.

Wood, stone and metal have been crafted while cloth has been intricately embroidered. The level of care and patience evident in these creations is characteristic of the devotion applied to worship.

The museum was opened this morning by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, with an investment of €1.2 million, 85% of which came from EU funds.

He described this exhibition centre as a place of cultural, artistic, educational and religious activity strengthened by the role of the civil society and the voluntary sector. In fact, Fondazzjoni Belt Victoria was behind the museum.

Dr Gonzi pointed out that our island’s development and that of its people is documented in stone. Our identity is also sculpted in stone. The museum is consequently a beautiful window of the cultural heritage we are so proud of.

He concluded that the work of the past is serving as investment for the future as more jobs and opportunities in tourism are being created.

The government is committed towards cultural heritage an over €75 million was invested in restoration works at the bastions, the Citadel, Mnajdra and Ggantija temples, Fort St Angelo and Fort St Elmo as well as visitors centres, including at the Citadel.

Gozo bishop Mario Grech said the museum belongs to the nation, not just the parish of St George or Gozo. Despite Gozo having small parishes, ancestors had extraordinary love towards God, the worship of St George and the church.

Faith gives substance to this all including the development of civility and Christianity. This is still alive today and continue to contribute to Christian and human life today. He prayed the museum will be a place of grace for all visitors.

Antoine Vassallo, chairman of Fondazzjoni Belt Victoria and project leader explained the museum was planned in a way that visitors truly feel the heartbeat of the smaller island. The name chosen in fact reflects this.

A website for the museum is currently being developed.