This year marks the 450th anniversary since Valletta’s first stone was laid. To commemorate this occasion, Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the Malta Libraries, is presenting an exhibition titled Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens. The exhibition is split between the National Library and the site of the former National War Museum at the lower part of Fort St Elmo.

The exhibition is another hallmark in the series of high standard exhibitions organised by Heritage Malta, and explores various aspects from different eras of Valletta. As the history of Valletta is too complex to be exhibited in a chronological way in a limited space, Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens relies on 11 different themes which are defensive ensemble, urban fabric, the gates, the convent, seat of government, a lived-in city, amenities, political hub, wind of change, changing face of Valletta and cultural resources.

Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens will remain open until July 2017. The opening hours at Vendome Bastion, the former War Museum, are from 9am to 6pm (last admission at 5.30pm).

At the National Library the exhibition is open from 8.15am to 1.15pm. For more information about the exhibition and other events visit www.heritagemalta.org, or follow Heritage Malta on Facebook.