The dazzling splendour of our church interiors and the striking beauty of our artistic statues and street decorations are mirrored in the multi-coloured 300 pages of Ilwien il-Festi Maltin - Colours of Maltese Festas, a bilingual publication now in its fourth year.
An introduction by the editor, Andrew Borg, and the photographer, Mark Micallef, indicates tourists and visiting Maltese migrants from across the great Maltese diaspora have been instrumental in the diffusion of the series in many countries as evidenced by the numerous positive comments that were received from readers in Italy, Germany, Spain and, again, from the Maltese communities in Canada and Australia.
Volume 4 features an introduction on the Christian dimension of festa celebrations by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mercieca and an in-depth study on the veneration of relics by Fr Jesmond Manicaro.
Undoubtedly, the Maltese festa has evolved into an important element of history and our national identity. Regardless of their religious beliefs, tourists who visit the islands are always struck by these multifaceted rituals.
The book celebrates the splendour of the Maltese festas by presenting an unfolding photographic representation that probes all aspects of the festa as popularly celebrated across the Maltese islands.
This impressive collection of snapshots is the work of an accomplished photographer and festa enthusiast, two characteristics which have ensured a professional choice of focus in catching the best elements for portrayal.
Micallef’s photographic eye, with its penchant for sharp detail, is indeed truly appreciative of the fascinating details behind the Maltese festa.
Publications of this genre help us to be better able to understand both the religious aspects as well as local folklore.
Furthermore, these features, portrayed through the lens with a written commentary, present another image of Maltese culture and artistic treasures that are enshrined in our churches and amplified during the annual festa, with extensive colourful craftsmanship adorning the streets of every town and village.