Bank of Valletta co-funded restoration project inaugurated
The restored siculo-byzantinesque painting of Our Lady of Mellieha depicting the Madonna and Child was officially inaugurated by Mgr Charles J Scicluna, Archbishop of Malta during a ceremony held at the Mellieha Sanctuary.
Visitors to the Mellieha Sanctuary can now admire the 14th century painting which includes various inscriptions of historical value which were uncovered during the restoration process.
"The Sanctuary dates back to the 14th century and probably further back," said Fr Joe Caruana, Mellieha parish priest. "Historical records show that this location was a site of devotion and on the pilgrimage route despite Mellieha being well off the beaten track, especially at those times."
"Newly uncovered symbols and engravings will continue to be studied. This might yield more light on Christianity in Malta and on the role of the Sanctuary," continued Fr Caruana.
Valentina Lupo from Atelier Del Restauro explained how layers of varnish and paint from previous restoration processes were removed to allow the painting to 'breathe' and allow salts from the rock to naturally dissipate from the rock thus not damaging the pictorial layer.
"We then consolidated the existing sections of the painting and reconstructed missing sections according to restoration ethics to ensure an eye-pleasing image while making a clear distinction between the original painting and the restores areas."
"This is a project that we have followed very closely and are very proud to have partnered," said Bank of Valletta CEO Mario Mallia. "As an active citizen within the Maltese Community, we pride ourselves in supporting projects that conserve Malta's rich cultural heritage. This is an important aspect of what makes us Maltese."