Concert funds to help restore paintings

Claire Baluci's spectacular concert at Bighi, hosted by Heritage Malta, was attended by over 700 people, according to the national cultural agency said.

With Grand Harbour as a backdrop, Ms Baluci's performance consisted of various popular classical and pop songs.

During the concert, digital projections of some of Caravaggio's important works were beamed on a large screen.

The concert formed part of a series of events to mark the 400th anniversary of Caravaggio's stay on the island.

The money raised will go towards the restoration and conservation of four main paintings by Caravaggist painters.

Part of the proceeds will be used for the refurbishment of the hall at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta where the works will be displayed.

The restored painting of Judith and Holofernes by Valentin Le Boulogne will be exhibited at the Contemporary Hall of the National Museum of Fine Arts from July 19. This famous painting will remain on display until August 14.

On September 15, Heritage Malta will be organising a Caravaggio heritage trail.

Participants will be visiting places directly connected to the artist's stay on the island including St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, the Inquisitor's Palace in Vittoriosa and Fort St Angelo, also in Vittoriosa. The Inquisitor's Palace itself is hosting an exhibition of seven works by Caravaggio in salt. These were made by Pierre Bugeja and Mario Ebejer, members of the Police Force.