PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT Landmark exhibition: ‘The Republic of Malta: The First Fifty Years, 1974-2024’ launched

Heritage Malta has launched The Republic of Malta: The First Fifty Years, 1974-2024, an exhibition at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta, commemorating five decades of the nation’s journey as a republic. The exhibition runs until March 2025.

Hosted in the Palace’s revamped Uccelliera – formerly the space where Grand Masters kept exotic birds as a status symbol of their power, and today fittingly a hall dedicated to the Republic of Malta, the exhibition features a rich collection of documents, artifacts, and multimedia displays exploring Malta’s struggle for self-determination – evolving from a people ruled by foreign powers to a res publica, and its achievements as a sovereign state. 

This milestone exhibition was inaugurated during an official ceremony, featuring distinguished guests including national leaders and Heritage Malta representatives. 

The exhibition also underscores the pivotal role of the Presidency in safeguarding democracy and fostering unity. 

In her speech, President Myriam Spiteri Debono defined the Republic as “a symbol of a nation and a people that are endowed with the wisdom our forefathers accumulated over the past centuries”. 

Describing this exhibition as one that pays tribute to the Maltese as a nation, the President accentuated the importance of increased civic education so that “a strong appreciation of what it means for one’s country to be a Republic, belonging to the people, and the people choosing their leaders and mapping their way forward”, is instilled in our youth.

Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that the constitutional development of the Republic is integral to the very essence of Malta’s identity. Quoting from the Constitution, Dr Abela emphasised that Malta is a democratic republic based on work and the respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of people. He said that the President of the Republic of Malta represents national unity. “Our country has achieved great things when united”, the Prime Minister remarked, noting the significant reforms carried out by the Government in recent years, including the process the Head of State is appointed. The Prime Minister further remarked that fifty years ago, we were still dependent on British Government funding in a military base. Today, however, we must take the next step forward, making a leap in quality to create the best opportunities possible, particularly for the youth of Malta and Gozo. He concluded his address by stressing the vital importance of safeguarding our identity and acknowledged the significant work of Heritage Malta in preserving and commemorating the achievements and history of our nation.

Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici remarked how we are commemorating 50 years since Malta became a Republic, a historic moment where the Maltese people have gained full autonomy over their destiny. “These fifty years marked a journey of great achievements for the country, built on the vision of strong leadership and the resilience of the Maltese and Gozitans”, the Minister remarked.

He also remarked that, “This historic moment was part of a series of key events: Independence, Republic, Freedom, and the European Union. Each of these steps was the result of collective work and sacrifice. While we look at these fifty years with pride, it is our duty to continue to build on this heritage to give our children a better future, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has worked to make this journey a success”.

Mario Cutajar, Chairman of Heritage Malta, emphasised that, “This tiny republic is a work-based one, and work is done by people. This anniversary should be a celebration of the Maltese, who over these 50 years have changed our country. This exhibition pays tribute to the Maltese of all times who have kept tingling the urge for our country to have its reins in its hands and to dream of the country we have today. It is a tiny taste of another way our story should be told, beyond princes and other royals”.

Noel Zammit, Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Malta, remarked, “This exhibition offers a profound insight into the resilience and determination of the Maltese people. It serves as a reminder of our shared history and aspirations while honouring the vision and unity that continue to shape our nation. We are proud to present this immersive experience that connects citizens to the roots of our democracy and the pivotal moments that define Malta today.”

A complementary, bilingual, and lavishly illustrated exhibition catalogue is also available for purchase. Entrance to the exhibition is included in the Grand Master’s Palace experience, which is fully accessible for persons with mobility challenges. 

For further information, you may visit www.heritagemalta.mt, follow Heritage Malta’s social media channels, or contact Heritage Malta on: (+356) 2295 4300.