Floriana’s hidden museum

Driving past the Floriana polyclinic one reaches a dead end, where a small chapel and an oratory are located to the left and a rather unassuming monastery blocks the way.

Yet, the large monastery houses a rich museum, which, despite being popular with art historians and scholars, is little known to the public.

On the lower floor, the museum hosts a collection of paintings, including works by Giuseppe Calì, Francesco Zahra and what is thought to be a Mattia Preti, along with a collection of religious artefacts, such as chalices and sacred vestments, and archaeological items.

However, even though some ornate vestments and gold make an appearance in the museum, they are not as prevalent as in other church collections.

“As an order, we are very strict about poverty, so we used to have everything made of wood, including tabernacles. The only time we used gold and silver was for the chalices because of Canon law,” Fr Martin Micallef, the museum’s curator, said. These are now proudly displayed in the museum, which is spread over two floors.

On display is an old tabernacle fashioned out of wood, which was damaged in 1942 when the monastery and the adjoining church were hit by enemy bombs, remains of which are also on display.

Along with the museum, the monastery features an extensive library with some rare and unique Melitensia, including the only known surviving copy of the French Constitution printed in Malta during Napoleon’s time here.

The already extensive collection is being expanded, as Lino and Josephine Cuschieri have donated their big collection of art, books and medals, including rare Maltese books and Preti paintings, which will slowly start making their way to the museum.

The museum can be viewed by appointment by calling Fr Micallef at the friary on 2122 5525 or e-mailing marmic@onvol.net.