One of the most imposing Baroque palaces in Mdina’s historic citadel is the one that houses the Cathedral Museum collection. Originally constructed as a Diocesan seminary, the building’s foundation stone was laid on December 6th, 1733. This ambitious project, patroned by Archbishop Fra Paul Alpheran de Bussan, took nine years to complete.

Built in the grand Baroque style, the structure features two stories surrounding a central courtyard that allows natural light and ventilation into its interior. Archbishop de Bussan, known for his refined taste, enlisted some of the best artists of the era, including French painter Antoine de Favray and Maltese artist Francesco Zahra, whose work significantly shaped Maltese iconography in the 18th century.

Over the centuries, the building has served various purposes, transitioning from seminary to storage facility, British military residence, boarding school, and more, with periods of disuse in between. In 1833, the Cathedral Chapter received a significant bequest from Count Saverio Marchese, including fine paintings, master drawings, and prints. This marked the beginning of a growing collection, prompting further donations of fine art and numismatics.

The need for a dedicated museum became evident, and on January 4th, 1969, a new Cathedral Museum was inaugurated by Governor Sir Maurice Dorman and Archbishop Michael Gonzi. The museum soon attracted notable donations, including Dr. John A. Cauchi’s collection in 1992 and a significant contribution from Dr Jimmy and Mrs Doris Farrugia in 2008. More recently, Dr John Bugeja Caruana generously donated an exceptional collection of paintings, furniture, silver, porcelain, and other historic artifacts. These contributions have transformed the museum into an eclectic repository of fine arts, catering to a wide range of visitor interests.

The Cathedral Museum is committed to inclusivity, prioritizing the needs of all visitors. It provides accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including a safe room for children with autism and resources for those with hearing or visual impairments. The museum’s mission extends beyond preserving artifacts to focusing on the visitor experience, ensuring that the treasure of knowledge it holds can be cherished by all. By promoting inclusivity and conservation, the museum safeguards Malta’s cultural and artistic heritage for future generations.

What treasures will you discover on your visit to the Mdina Metropolitan Cathedral Museum?