Learn how science can assist cultural heritage

On Friday 28th September, as part of the Science in the City events taking place in Valletta, Heritage Malta is inviting the general public (from 12 years of age up) to learn about conservation science via an excellent case study of the Gran Salon conservation project, currently on going with the support of the Bank of Valletta.

The Grand Salon, with its richly painted walls and wooden beamed ceiling, has always fascinated visitors at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. However, the time has come for the necessary conservation and preservation measures to maintain this historical hall to its full glory.

Conservation interventions and scientific analysis currently underway at the Grand Salon have generated further information about this site. Such studies have revealed how science can be useful to understand the complexities of cultural heritage objects.

Besides enjoying the opportunity to explore this magnificent historical hall, participants can attend to presentations which will disclose this information. Heritage Malta conservators will highlight how they are tackling the conservation of the Gran Salon. On the other hand, a scientist from Heritage Malta’s Diagnostic Science Laboratories, will explain how hidden features beneath the mural paintings were uncovered via Infra Red technology, and pigments were identified and dated according to their period of manufacture and application. All this is done in support of the site’s conservation and preservation.

Four presentations will be held at the Grand Salon of the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta, starting on the hour from 19.00hrs, with the last presentation starting at 22.00hrs.

Attendance is on a first come, first served basis.