Great Siege Monument to undergo maintenance

The monument of the Great Siege opposite the law courts in Valletta, is to undergo maintenance work in the coming weeks following a sponsorship by FIMBank.

The monument, installed in 1927, is an Antonio Sciortino masterpiece.

FIMBank said the purpose of the works was to ensure the conservation of the monument for future generations. The project will be coordinated by heritage NGO Din l-Art Ħelwa.

The monument consists of a granite base with three bronze figures above. The female figure on the left represents Faith and carries a papal tiara in her outstretched hand, while the one on the right, which carries a mask of Minerva, represents Civilisation. These female figures are wearing flowing dresses as well as a band in their hair. The central figure is a muscular male representing Valour, and holds a sword in his right hand which points down the centre of the monument. He is also holding a shield with his left hand. The male figure is wearing half a suit of armour as well as a three-pointed crown.

The project will commence in the coming days and will be concluded in time for the annual wreath-laying ceremony held on September 8, Victory Day.

Experienced conservators Ingrid Ross, James Licari and Frank Chetcuti, have been entrusted with the cleaning and preventive maintenance together with architect Claude Borg of the Restoration Project Office (Valletta Mdina Cottonera Rehabilitation Project).

Works will primarily address the effects of unfavourable atmospheric conditions, in particular the natural weathering process caused mainly by salt deposition, acidic bird droppings as well as past interventions.