TWO HISTORIC MASTERPIECES RESTORED TO FORMER GLORY AT SAN ĠWANN PARISH CHURCH

Two iconic paintings by Maltese master Giuseppe Briffa have been beautifully restored and reinstated at San Ġwann Parish Church, thanks to the support of the BOV Foundation.

The artworks, The Immaculate Conception within the context of the fall of humanity and The Annunciation of the Virgin by the Archangel Gabriel, were unveiled during a visit by Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer at Bank of Valletta, representing the BOV Foundation. He was joined by Charles Azzopardi, Head CSR at the Bank, together with PrevArti founder and lead conservator Pierre Bugeja and Parish Priest Fr Bertrand Vella.

The restoration project was entrusted to PrevArti, which carried out a thorough conservation process to address flaking paint, surface grime, yellowed varnish, and structural weaknesses. The treatment included paint layer consolidation, delicate cleaning, removal of overpainting, and fine retouching, all of which helped revive the rich detail and luminosity of Briffa’s original compositions.

“These paintings are more than devotional pieces—they are cultural treasures,” said Ernest Agius. “The BOV Foundation is proud to contribute to projects that safeguard Malta’s heritage and ensure these artistic works continue to inspire future generations.”

Pierre Bugeja remarked on the value of preserving Briffa’s legacy, noting that “These are historically and artistically significant works. Our aim was to respect the artist’s original vision while ensuring the paintings are structurally and visually sound for years to come.”

The project is part of a wider commitment by the BOV Foundation to invest in the cultural fabric of Malta, recognising that the conservation of sacred art not only preserves the nation’s artistic heritage but also reinforces a shared sense of identity and community. By supporting such initiatives through its dedicated Foundation, the Bank helps bridge the past with the present – ensuring that historical narratives, spiritual symbolism, and artistic mastery remain accessible and appreciated by all.

Fr Bertrand extended his appreciation to all those involved in the initiative, noting the renewed beauty and reverence the paintings now bring to the sacred space of the church of Our Lady of Lourdes in San Ġwann.

Bank of Valletta, through its Foundation and CSR programmes, remains committed to supporting the arts, culture, and the preservation of Malta’s historical and artistic legacy.