Historic events to be relived in Vittoriosa and Mdina

Two of the highlights of the Malta Historic Cities Festival will take place this weekend: Birgu By Candle Light on the theme of Carnival, on Saturday at 7 p.m.; and the re-enactment of the arrival of King Roger II in Mdina on Sunday at 2.30 p.m.

Vittoriosa (Birgu) was chosen by the Knights of St John as their maritime town on their arrival here in 1530.

During their stay, together with the inhabitants of the town, they made sure to celebrate carnival. When the Knights left for Valletta in 1571, Vittoriosa retained its importance as the major maritime town of the island.

Visitors to Vittoriosa on Saturday will have the opportunity to enjoy carnival as it was celebrated by the Knights. The streets will be lit by candles and the carnival of old will be re-enacted.

Re-enactments include the Grand Master granting his consent for Carnival celebrations to begin, a jousting tournament among Knights dressed as crusaders, a carnival ball and the performance of a play which was prepared by the Knights of Italy among many other items.

On the other hand, visitors to Mdina on Sunday will view the re-enactment of King Roger II's arrival, who set out to Malta to establish a Norman style of government on the island in 1127.

Following Count Roger's attack on the islands in 1091, the Arab leaders accepted his demands and settled for a new government led by the Norman overlords.

People were allowed to retain their religious faith. The situation survived until Frederick II brought to an end the Arab administration and influence in 1224.