Photo: Ian Noel Pace – Archdiocese of Malta

The Archbishop’s Palace in Valletta will open its doors to the public to mark the restoration of the Chapel of St Joseph (1622).

On Saturday 20th June 2026, visitors can view the newly restored chapel with its 18th-century Baroque design commissioned by Bishop Alpheran de Bussan, as well as the paintings by Silvestro Querio il Romano (c.1600-1672) and the Renaissance coffered ceiling commissioned by Bishop Baldassare Cagliares, which were discovered during the project. Visitors can also see the Throne Room and the magnificent Chancery with its restored 18th-century painted ceiling and cabinetry.

The two ceilings of the chapel: (left) the 18th-century ceiling, (right) the 17th-century ceiling.
Photo: Curatorial Studio

On this occasion, talks in English will be given by:

  • Suzannah Depasquale on Research, Discovery and Curatorship: Architectural and Artistic Heritage in the Chapel of St Joseph at 10:30am
  • Valentina Lupo on The Conservation of St Joseph’s Chapel: A Multidisciplinary Approach to a Complex Interior at 11:00am
  • Dr Theresa Vella on The Renaissance Legacy in the Chapel of St Joseph and the Impact of the Baroque Age 11:30am
A detail from the 18th-century ceiling. Photo: Curatorial Studio

The conservation of the Chapel of St Joseph took place under the patronage of Archbishop Charles Scicluna, with the generous donation by Madame Marie-Amélie Gleizes Dewavrin. 

The Archbishop’s Palace dates to the first decades of the 17th century and is found in the lower part of Archbishop Street close to Independence Square. On Saturday 20th June, it will be open from 9am till 2pm. Entrance is free.

The 17th-century ceiling that was uncovered during the restoration. Photo: Curatorial Studio