Lectures on Holy Week in Malta, Spain

Heritage Malta will organise two lectures in English about Holy Week in collaboration with the Maltese-Spanish Cultural Centre at the Inquisitor's Palace in Vittoriosa on April 3 and 4 at 6.30 p.m.

The lectures are being held in conjunction with an exhibition entitled Ecce Mater Tua, Ecce Filius Tuus: Good Friday Costumes In Spain And Malta at the Inquisitor's Palace and which runs until April 15.

On April 3, Chiara Felice will speak about Semana Santa (Holy Week) traditions in Spain, when she will outline the flavour of centuries old traditions.

Semana Santa celebrations, laden with emotion, are vital to Spain's identity. There are numerous traditions, with perhaps the most famous being the spectacular processions with the artistic Pasos taking place all over Spain, especially in Andalucía.

The customs provide a constant reminder of the Christian, Moorish, Sephardic and pagan heritage. Regardless of creed, no visitor can fail to be moved by the pain, sorrow, elation and even jubilation of these mysterious celebrations.

In the second lecture on April 4, entitled Good Friday Traditions In Vittoriosa During The Knights' Period, Lino Bugeja will discuss traditions dating back to the Order of St John.

Spanish influences also had a telling impact on the development of the Good Friday processions in the maritime city.

Admission to the lectures is free, however seating priority will be given to holders of complimentary tickets that can be collected from the Inquisitor's Palace, Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from the Heritage Malta head office in Merchants Street, Valletta, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.