The Mdina Metropolitan Chapter's Facebook page recently shared fascinating insights into the Apostolato, a remarkable collection of fifteen Silver Statues crafted between 1741 and 1743 by the skilled hands of Roman silversmith Antonio Arrighi.

As revealed by this page, a distressing chapter in their history unfolded during the French occupation when the invaders stripped the statues and other treasures of their precious metals.

These metals were melted down to mint coins for the payment of French troops' salaries. In an act of preservation, the Cathedral Chapter negotiated with the French, exchanging other treasures to spare the statues from destruction.

Yet, the statues faced further peril when they were taken again by the French during an exhibition in August 1799. This prompted another daring redemption effort, resulting in the exchange of a staggering 1538 lbs of gold and silver from the Cathedral to secure the return of the 445 lbs of silver comprising the Apostolato.

Today, these historic treasures continue to be revered, with the Apostolato gracing the main altar of the Mdina Cathedral during three annual solemnities, including Christmas, the Conversion of St. Paul, and St. Peter and St. Paul.

Have you ever witnessed the Apostolato in person?