Life at Vittoriosa creek during the 18th century was re-enacted yeste-rday for Heritage Malta’s Life at Sea 2012.

Historians and Heritage Malta curators were present to explain and discuss with visitors particular themes and artefacts

The family event was held at the Malta Maritime Museum, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary since opening. It in­cluded exhibits that were brought to life with the help of re-enactors, historians and curators, who provided fresh insight into Malta’s maritime past.

Over a short period of time, the Maritime Museum saved 60 full-size traditional boats. Part of the collection, the largest of its kind that is focused on Maltese maritime craft, was on display for the first time yesterday.

The museum also houses the remaining ovens that used to bake 6,000 loaves of bread a day for the Royal Navy in its heyday.

During the event, the museum organised tours, animated by re-enactors, who introduced visitors to various 18th-century characters. Historians and Heritage Malta curators were present to explain and discuss with visitors particular themes and artefacts.

Re-enactors, who portrayed members of the Order of St John’s navy in the 18th-century, demonstrated hand-to-hand fighting tactics and artillery manoeuvres, in addition to explaining the nasty side of seafaring life.

The museum’s main hall was transformed into a multi-functional educational area, where children got the chance to participate in a colourful and noisy portrayal of Maltese maritime legends and stories.

The museum’s tavern was also open, serving 18th-century Maltese coffee, hot chocolate, pies, a heart-warming soup and a rich, chunky stew from a recipe that dates back to 1812.

For the occasion, the Inquisitor’s Palace hosted a temporary exhibition on the Cult of St Paul in Malta.

All proceeds were in aid of the museum’s restoration works.

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