A new immersive exhibition at the Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa has been inaugurated, showcasing the significant connection the country has with the sea.
This exhibition marks the completion of the first phase of the restoration project currently underway at the Maritime Museum, a project co-financed by Norwegian funds, a government statement read.
During the inauguration speech, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Funds Chris Fearne spoke of the importance of preserving the country's rich history, found in every Maltese town and village, through both European and Norwegian funds, as demonstrated by the Maritime Museum project.
He reiterated the government's commitment to continuing to utilize European funds to ensure the preservation of Malta's cultural heritage. Among other things, he mentioned ongoing discussions regarding the restoration works of Villa Guardamangia, another cultural project that will be carried out through European funds.
Minister for National Heritage Owen Bonnici said that the Maritime Museum is a very important site for the country and praised Heritage Malta for implementing this project.
He also spoke about the artifacts on display in the exhibition, ranging from various paintings, including the oldest known depiction of the Battle of Lepanto, to ancient instruments used for sea travel.
Bonnici said that the Maritime Museum closed its doors in 2020 to embark on an ambitious restoration project.
"The first phase of the works, with an investment of €2 million, included the regeneration of the most in-need parts of the building and the establishment of the Digitization Section within Heritage Malta," he said, while thanking all the workers involved in the project.
Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli said that "restoration work on historical sites is not only about preserving ancient buildings, but is a way of honouring the country's historical past, narrating the present, and building a sustainable future for future generations."
She said that the investment in the museum will continue to strengthen and enhance the tourism and economic sector of Vittoriosa and its surroundings.
Zerafa Civelli also urged the public to visit the museum and the exhibition to further increase awareness of our cultural heritage.
Present at the inauguration was an official delegation responsible for EEA Norway Grants.
Deputy Director of the EEA Grants and Central Europe Section Torill Johansen expressed Norway's pride in contributing to this project led by Heritage Malta, where historical heritage will continue to reach the public.
She noted that maritime and coastal heritage is an integral part of both Malta's and Norway's cultural identity, and both countries are committed to safeguarding and ensuring that this heritage is enjoyed by future generations.
Heritage Malta CEO Noel Zammit expressed satisfaction that through funds from the EEA Norway Grants and national funds, this project will be successfully completed.
He mentioned that upon completion of the project, the Maritime Museum will offer visitors an unforgettable experience, including the most modern technology.
Work is also underway on the second phase of the project, which includes the restoration, modernization, and design of the remaining spaces in the museum.
From 9 February, the Maritime Museum will be open daily except on Tuesdays, from 9am to 5pm throughout February, and from 10am to 6pm between March and December.
The museum is also accessible to wheelchair users. For more information, you can visit: https://maltamaritimemuseum.mt/