‘Il-Pampalun’ lives on! King of Maltese Carnival honoured with statue in Valletta
The capital honours its Carnival King.
As we edge closer to the moment that carnival floats will burst onto Malta’s streets in a riot of colour, music and satire, one unmistakable figure has always stands at the heart of the celebrations: Paul Curmi, affectionately known as Il-Pampalun.
Widely regarded as the true King of Maltese Carnival, Paul was the spirit of carnival itself – bold, theatrical, and unapologetically joyful. Though he passed away in November 2023, his larger-than-life presence continues to echo through the festivities he so dearly loved.
In a touching gesture, artist Indri Attard channelled the nation’s grief into creativity. Upon hearing the news of Il-Pampalun’s passing on 8th November 2023, the artist sketched the design for a commemorative bust in just a few hours during the night.
That spontaneous act of inspiration has now become a lasting tribute. The statue has been unveiled at Ġnien il-Mandraġġ, the small green area in Valletta’s historic Mandraġġ quarter, close to the capital’s entrance at St Mark’s Street.
The location is fitting – standing at the entrance of the city that hosts Malta’s grandest Carnival celebrations. Here, locals and wanderers can pause to remember the man who brought so much colour, laughter, and character to the nation’s cultural calendar.
Long live the King of Carnival!