The Caravaggio Centre within St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a project with an expenditure of more than €2.1 million, co-financed by European funds, has been opened.

The aim of this Centre is to allow visitors to learn more about the renowned artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, and explore his revolutionary techniques, his life, and his timeless artistic legacy.

The Centre will offer rare opportunities for visitors to experience Caravaggio's works up close, providing an interactive and informative experience. This additional area will be offered as complimentary admission with the same entrance ticket.

During the inauguration, the Culture Minister Owen Bonnici said that the masterpieces of this renowned artist and his innovative works continue to inspire audiences worldwide. He also explained that this is an educational and interactive centre filled with information at its best.

Bonnici said that the fact that this additional area will be offered as complimentary admission with the same entrance ticket, means that the beautiful experience one will receive when visiting this architectural gem will be enhanced.

He said that this project was important, not only for the country but for the European art scene as a whole, as Caravaggio's works are an expression of the finest European creativity.

Archbishop of Malta Charles Scicluna stated that the goal of the Caravaggio Centre goes beyond aesthetic value because, apart from showcasing the artist's genius, this project is a way for art to pave the way for truth and good.

Scicluna reflected on Caravaggio's complex personality and emphasized the enduring relevance of his art in today's world.

"In The Beheading of St John the Baptist, we see the tragedy of when arrogance and abuse of power victimize the innocent. Caravaggio's painting is a monument to the tragedy of humanity. It shows what is happening now in Ukraine, in the Holy Land, in Sudan, and in many other places around the world,” Scicluna said.

He said he hopes that this project will inspire visitors to aspire for positive change.

President of the Foundation Glenn Micallef said that this project is the highest example of the work the Foundation is doing to enhance the experience of those who visit St. John's Co-Cathedral.

Micallef said that this is one of the many projects it is carrying out - projects that will continue to be carried out from the same Co-Cathedral, a place that makes us proud around the world.

The Caravaggio Centre will be divided as follows:

The ground floor: 'Face to Face' is an area where visitors can learn all about 'The Beheading'. Life-size projections bring visitors face-to-face with all the important details of the painting, often overlooked due to the confines of the Oratory.

The ground floor also provides another space for attractions related to Caravaggio's other paintings - 'St. Jerome Writing', as well as interactive displays providing information related to the history of the painting and focusing on educational aspects.

On the same level, 'Meet Caravaggio' is an audiovisual area that provides narrative about the life, career, and artistic achievements of Caravaggio and his artistic production during his visit to Malta. In this area, visitors can enjoy informative visual projections.

The scientific section will provide an opportunity to understand the artist's creative process, as well as the vicissitudes the painting faced over the centuries, thanks to the assistance of non-invasive diagnostic techniques, such as Infrared Reflectography and UV lights.

During the press conference, it was also announced that work on the clock room, dating back to 1584, of St. John's Co-Cathedral has been completed, following work carried out by the Foundation's workers.

The public can follow closely the operation of this clock dominating the facade of the Co-Cathedral as well as the South Bell Tower.

For more information, please visit http://www.stjohnscocathedral.com/