The St John’s Co-Cathedral museum project in Malta has achieved a major milestone with the successful installation of trusses for the new Tapestries Chamber. This phase of the project involves the construction of a state-of-the-art museum that will showcase the cathedral’s priceless artifacts, including 29 Flemish tapestries, the largest complete set in the world. The trusses, weighing over 3 tons each and measuring 11 meters in width, were installed with high precision engineering and coordination.
This development marks significant progress in the New Museum Project, which aims to create a cultural landmark in the Mediterranean and Valletta’s crown jewel. The project involves a €13 million extension and modernization of the museum, including the Caravaggio Centre, which was opened in the spring. The new museum will provide a dedicated space to exhibit the tapestries, alleviate strain on the church caused by daily visitors, and enhance the cultural equity of Valletta.
The St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation has been working tirelessly to ensure the project’s success, engaging in continuous discussions with stakeholders, including national planning, heritage, transport, and local authorities. The foundation has also incorporated amendments suggested by ICOMOS, UNESCO’s advisory body, to preserve the cultural and historical integrity of the monument.