This past Sunday 9th March, an important piece of Malta’s artistic heritage was officially unveiled at Santa Marija ta’ Ġesu’ Church in Rabat - the beautifully restored wooden 'sopraporta' (known as door pediment or overdoor in English), originally crafted by Rabat-born artist Paolo Bugeja, all the way back in 1883.

For the past few months, skilled hands have been working to bring this masterpiece back to its former glory. The overdoor, which is placed over the main church door during the Feast of Saint Joseph on 19th March, is an incredible example of Maltese woodwork. Now 141 years old, it was originally gilded in gold, but time had taken its toll.

The restoration project was led by James Saliba, who carefully treated the wood, repaired delicate plaster and gilding, and removed previous unprofessional interventions, like the use of 'Porporina', a type of imitation gold paint. Over the years, small damages had occurred during the assembly, disassembly, and movement of the structure, making this restoration necessary to preserve it for future generations.

This isn’t the first time James Saliba has worked on Maltese treasures - he was also responsible for restoring the antique Monument of the Dead Christ at the Sanctuary of Saint Joseph, designed by the renowned artist Francesco Zahra.

Thanks to this incredible restoration project, a piece of Maltese history has been safeguarded, and is now ready to be admired during this year’s Feast of Saint Joseph and for many years to come!

Have you ever visited this church in Rabat?