A unique exhibition of a traditional Maltese Good Friday procession formed by almost 600 small clay statuettes (pasturi) and small Good Friday statues, was inaugurated today at the Russian Chapel of San Anton Palace in Attard.

The exhibition was opened by President George Abela in an event which took him to his childhood days when he also used to collect pasturi and Good Friday figurines.

The statuettes, the work of Paul Muscat, show every aspect of the procession, including the various Biblical characters who take part, the band and the Roman soldiers. The small statues belong to Lawrence Mamo, who inherited them from his father and decorated them.

The 'procession' winds its way around the small, historic chapel, and around other artistic exhibits, including a crucifix, chalices and candlesticks made of pasta and an impressive reproduction in salt and rice of Caravaggio's Beheading of St John, done by Paul Muscat and his wife Terry, their children Andreas and Helena and Natasha Attard.

The exhibition remains open all day till Easter, with proceeds going to the Community Chest Fund.

President Abela said that Holy Week church events would also be held in the chapel, including the functions of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

On Easter Sunday at 9 a.m, Archbishop Paul Cremona will lead Mass just outside the Palace at San Anton Gardens. The Mass will also mark the first year of Dr Abela's presidency.