Antoine de Paule Hall at San Anton Palace was inaugurated last night, with President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca in attendance.

The restoration of the hall is part of a series of extensive works being carried out at San Anton Palace. Other finished projects include the music room, the Anton Buttigieg Library and the Presidents’ Social Welfare Foundation offices.

During the President’s address, she said that “this is another moment where, as a Maltese citizen”, she feels proud of Malta’s cultural heritage and its talented people, “who have given new life to this part of the majestic Palace, which can be used for today’s needs”.

President Coleiro Preca said that San Anton Palace is a precious example of Malta’s cultural heritage, adding that it is the people’s responsibility to preserve it for generations to come. 

The Palace was built by Grand Master Antoine de Paule in 1620. The original site was used as the summer residence of Grand Master de Paule.

The President thanked all those involved in the restoration works, including architects William Soler and Paul Borg from DeMicoli and Associates, the workers from the Office of the President under the leadership of Mr Alfred Debono, all contractors involved and the Malta Financial Services Authority who put up the funds for the works.