The Ministry for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government has announced that they have invested a whopping €300,000 for the beautiful Valletta Madonna ta’ Giezu Chruch to be restored.

The project that is currently underway by the Directory of Restoration is expected to be fully finished in January of 2024.

Jean Frendo, the architect overseeing the restoration explained how important it is to clean the church’s stone in order to remove any carbon accumulation, sulphur compounds and any other contaminations.  

Nonetheless, even though they’re cleaning contaminations, they’re still doing everything within their power to stick with the original plans as much as possible.

“After the removal and cleaning of the cement and plaster coating, the disintegrated limestone will be replaced with a heights course that matches the original. Stonework that has deteriorated to the point that it threatens stability and detracts from the architectural appearance of the building or is dangerous for users or passers-by will also be replaced”, Jean Frendo continued to express.

What’s the history behind this iconic church?

The church’s dates back to 1571 when the Friars Minor were given a piece of land in Valletta, a few years after the city itself was built. They decided to build a church following the design of the renowned architect Girolamo Cassar.

Throughout its history, many Grand Masters and Maltese nobility donated many artworks and money to the church, making it the stunning temple it is today.

One of its most notable artworks included the impressive Miraculous Crucifix made by the Sicilian friar Innocenzo da Petralia Sottana in 1630. It’s taken out every year around the streets of Valletta for the Good Friday procession.

Nonetheless, the church also has some dark history. It is the location of the carnival tragedy of 1823 where around 110 boys were crushed to death in the corridor while waiting to receive some bread.

The church remains under the care of Franciscan Friars and is still one of the most sought-after churches in all of Valletta.

Facebook/Knisja Santa Marija ta' Gesu' - Patrijiet Frangiskani l-Belt Valletta