A decade after his passing, the legacy of Professor Jeremy Boissevain (1928–2015) is being celebrated in a new exhibition at the Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu. Titled Legacy of an Anthropologist: the Jeremy Fergus Boissevain Archive, the display marks the donation of the renowned anthropologist’s Malta-related research to the National Museum of Ethnography.

Boissevain, who first arrived in Malta in the 1950s and returned during his doctoral research at the London School of Economics in the early 1960s, developed a deep connection with the island. Fascinated by the vibrant community life and religious traditions, he authored the landmark book Saints and Fireworks: Religion and Politics in Rural Malta (1965). His later works, including Friends of Friends (1974), earned international acclaim.

Immersing himself in village life in Ħal Kirkop and Naxxar, Boissevain considered himself an “outsider looking in,” yet became an integral observer of Maltese culture. He also lectured at the University of Malta and was known for his critique of overdevelopment and tourism.

Transferred from the Netherlands in 2024 and donated by his family, the archive includes interviews, field notes, photographs, and published works, offering a rare and intimate insight into Malta’s evolving social fabric.

Senior Curator, Kenneth Cassar highlighted Boissevain’s enduring love for Malta, while his daughter Lietje Bonello Boissevain expressed hope that the archive will inspire future generations.

The exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday until September, from 09:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30), as part of the Inquisitor’s Palace experience.

Will you be visiting this exhibition?