On 28 June, the Ambassador of Italy Giovanni Umberto De Vito conferred the high decoration of 'Cavaliere al Merito della Repubblica Italiana' to Reverend Father Marius Zerafa for his relevant contribution to the knowledge of Italian artistic heritage and cultural influence, as well as his active promotion of collaboration between Italian and Maltese public, Church and private institutions in these areas.

As a distinguished art academic, specialised in Italian art, member of the 'Accademia Tiberina' and Lecturer at Angelicum University of Rome for several decades, Father Zerafa conducted highly appreciated seminars and conferences on Italy's vast artistic heritage, often partnering with the Italian Institute of Culture in Valletta.

Rev. Fr. Marius Zerafa is best known for his outstanding role in the successful recovery of Caravaggio's 'St. Jerome Writing', following 8 months of tactful negotiations with the thieves.

During the decoration ceremony, held at the Italian Institute of Culture, the Ambassador of Italy highlighted Father Zerafa's remarkable achievements and thanked him for his long-standing collaboration with the Italian Embassy.

Several personalities attended the event including President Emeritus Ugo Mifsud Bonnici.