Museums by Candlelight Birgu

Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the Birgu Local Council, is delighted to announce the return of “Museums by Candlelight“, taking place on Saturday 10th May in the heart of historical Birgu.

Following the remarkable success of our previous event in October, which attracted thousands of locals and tourists alike, we are once again committed to making Malta’s rich cultural heritage accessible to everyone.

This exceptional evening will feature three renowned sites – the Malta Maritime Museum, the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St Angelo – opened at a donation of just €3 for all three sites, enhanced by an enchanting atmosphere and vibrant entertainment throughout.

All three sites will open their doors at 7:00 pm and remain open during extended hours – until 12:00 am. The sites will be illuminated with the warm, flickering light of candles and torches.

This is also an excellent opportunity for the public to experience no less than three exhibitions currently set up in the unique ambiences provided by these historical sites.

The exhibition ‘An Island at the Crossroads’, at the Malta Maritime Museum, takes visitors on a journey through Malta’s salt-scented centuries, focusing on how our islands were always at the heart of navigation. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit, as the museum is set to close on May 31st for the second phase of restoration.

The Inquisitor’s Palace, on the other hand, is permanently housing the captivating ‘Fare Convito – The Archaeology of Banqueting in Hospitaller Malta’. This exhibition delves into the intersection of food, art, and politics, revealing the intricate rituals of Baroque banqueting in Malta, and features items recovered through archaeological digs within the palace itself.

In ‘Threads of Faith – Liturgical Vestments of the Order of St John’, also at the Inquisitor’s Palace, the refined garments worn by the clergy during the rule of the religious order in Malta, and even before, come under the spotlight until the end of July 2025.

General admission tickets – combining entry in all three sites – may be acquired against a donation of €3, and will be available both online and at the door.

A diverse entertainment programme will make the night even more special.

Luke Briffa will perform to the sweet notes of live guitar, violin and cajon at the Malta Maritime Museum from 20:30 to 23:30.

The Ta’ Verna Folk Band will enthral audiences visiting the Inquisitor’s Palace from 20:00 till 22:00.

Bernie & Pod will be the stars at Fort St Angelo from 20:30 to 23:30.

Talented reenactors from Show of Arms will also animate Fort St Angelo.

Tickets are not refundable.

In collaboration with the Birgu Local council

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