The restoration of four decorated ceilings at Verdala Palace in Buskett has been financed by Bank of Valletta.

The site of the Palace originally housed a small hunting lodge built by Grandmaster Jean Parisot de la Valette. The present structure was erected by Grandmaster Fra Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle in 1586.

The first floor of the Palace was remodelled in Baroque times during the Magistry of Grandmaster António Manoel de Vilhena (1722-1736). The decorated ceilings date to this period.

The four ceilings follow the same typology with a central medallion and framed segments carrying different references to the Magistry of Vilhena, his coat of arms and armorial references.

The wood soffits on which the paintings have been executed suffered changes in atmospheric conditions over almost 300 years and this resulted in considerable damage.

Apart from being an architectural gem, Verdala Palace, has played many roles in its history.

These include acting as a repository for the National Museum of Arts during the Second World War. It has also hosted various dignitaries during their stay in Malta, including King George V and Queen Mary in 1912, Prince Albert in 1913 and King George VI in April 1943.

The four decorated ceilings are a main attraction of the Palace and their restoration has been entrusted to Heritage Malta.

The restoration was announced this evening during a news conference by President George Abela and Bank of Valletta chairman Roderick Chalmers.

Mr Chalmers said the bank looked forward to the first open day at Verdala Palace to be held during L-Istrina on December 26.

Then, the ceilings, restored to their former glory, could be enjoyed by the public.