An exhibition commemorating the 900th anniversary from the founding of the Order of St John is currently running at the National Library of Malta, under the auspices of Malta Libraries.

The exhibition, Tuitio Fidei Et Obsequium Pauperum – the Sovereign Military Order of Malta 1113-2013, showcases a number of manuscripts taken from the Order’s archives, some of which date back to just under 1,000 years.

The exhibition sheds light on the three phases of the Order – the epoch prior to the Knights’ arrival in Malta, their time here and the period after their departure, coming up to the present day.

Some items of clothing directly relating to the Order will also form part of the exhibition.

To commemorate this anniversary, the National Library of Malta is also launching two new publications.

The first of these is a booklet relating to the archives of the Order, in both Maltese and English, which will provide information on the archives, from its origin to the present day. It should be noted that the greater part of this archive is in fact preserved at the National Library.

The other publication, also in Maltese and English, offers photographs and informational snippets about each of the 28 Grand Masters who ruled Malta between 1530 and 1798. This publication should prove useful to students of Maltese history, providing an introductory guide to these historical figures which will surely serve to whet the appetite for more detailed knowledge about the lives and achievements of our islands’ rulers. These publications are also available from the National Library.

The exhibition, which is free of charge, is open to the public from Monday to Friday until August 2.