Exactly 294 years ago today, Teatru Manoel opened up its doors with its first ever production and became the iconic theatre that we know and love today.

Its first performance on 19^th January, 1732 was that of 'La Merope'. It was a three-act opera by Geminiano Giacomelli and a libretto by Apostolo Zeno.

Throughout the 294 years, it has been renamed three times - originally as ‘Teatro Pubblico’, it then became the ‘Teatro Reale’ in 1800 before being officially named ‘Teatru Manoel’ in 1866. This name pays tribute to Fra Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, the same Grand Master who commissioned the theatre to be built in 1731.

Since then, it has seen many renowned and talented artists perform in it, as well as having many notable guests.

When was the last time you visited Malta's National Theatre?