The Hulda, a 105-year-old Swedish schooner, is berthed at Vittoriosa Waterfront exhibiting scientific artworks by the late sculptor Ilhan Koman.

Mr Koman, born in Turkey in 1921, is often compared to Leonardo Da Vinci for his humanistic approach to art and his outstanding ingenuity. He lived and worked on the Hulda, which he restored himself, from 1965 until his death in 1986.

The ship is classified as a historical monument in Sweden and is actually a floating arts and science festival, touring various European ports with Mr Koman's works on board.

The Hulda Festival aims to disseminate the notion of science and scientific thought among the public, particularly young people, using playful associations to present the creative aspects of scientific thought.

Across the quayside from where the ship is berthed, at Caraffa Vaults, youth workshops are being held, aimed at highlighting the long-standing relations between artistic and scientific disciplines.

The project is funded by the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme for Research. It forms part of a pan-European collaboration in which the Malta Council of Science Technology is the local coordinator.

The Hulda will remain in port till July 13 and is open to the public daily between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and from 4 to 10 p.m. The exhibition and workshops are free.

www.huldafestival.org