This Friday evening, St. John’s Co-Cathedral will become more than a historical landmark or a sacred space—it will serve as a stage for remembrance, reflection, and shared heritage. The world premiere of Il Grande Assedio di Malta del 1565 – Nascita di Valletta, composed and conducted by Maestro Pietro Cangiano and presented by the Embassy of Italy in collaboration with the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government and private sponsors, is a cultural tribute not only to Malta’s history but to the enduring friendship between our two nations.
This oratorio – a symphonic poem which will be performed by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra – is not simply a musical composition; it is a narrative brought to life through melody and voice, recounting one of Malta’s most defining moments—the Great Siege of 1565—and the birth of its capital, Valletta. Through the universal language of music, we revisit the resilience and courage of the Maltese people, and the legacy of a city founded in the aftermath of conflict but rooted in hope.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral, with its timeless grandeur and profound significance, is the ideal setting for such a performance. The cathedral stands as a symbol of Malta’s spiritual and cultural identity, and on the evening of Friday, 25th April, it will once again witness a convergence of history and the arts.
Therefore, this event is more than a celebration of musical excellence—it is an opportunity to reflect on the values that connect us across time and borders. It reminds us of the role that culture plays in sustaining dialogue, understanding, and peace.
Italy and Malta share centuries of intertwined history, and through initiatives like this, we continue to strengthen the cultural ties that bind us. Il Grande Assedio is a reflection of that bond—a collaborative homage to the past and a shared investment in the future.
As we gather for this unique occasion, we do so not only as audience members, but as participants in a living history. Let us listen, remember, and celebrate together.
H.E. Fabrizio Romano, Ambassador of Italy to Malta
