The hall at the top floor of the Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu was packed with members of the public (see photo) recently during a talk by George Cini about Strait Street in Valletta. Mr Cini has just published his second book on the oral history of this piquant part of Valletta called Strada Stretta Aktar dawl fuq it-triq li darba xegħlet il-Belt. The book consists of 25 interviews with people who worked in Strait Street and others who earned a living from its proceeds.

"I was surpised to find how many people are interested in knowing more about the history of these islands and particularly about Strada Stretta. It's amazing that so many people had someone in their family or close relatives who worked in this zestful neighbourhood."

Following the talk in English which was held in collaboration with Heritage Malta, Mr Cini fielded questions from the floor and met members of the audience whose family history is in some way or another connected to this spirited street.

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