Working is progressing on site at St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum.
The project has reached another milestone with the practical completion of the civil works, including the construction of the Tapestry Chamber spanning over 45 metres, the dome of the Capella Ardente, and a complex helicoidal staircase. At its core, the staircase incorporates a specialised circular lift, designed to provide seamless access across all levels of the museum.
The façades of the Tapestry Chamber, currently under construction on all four sides, are being built from over 2,370 individually designed limestone blocks. The stone is locally quarried and subjected to a rigorous quality control process. Boulders are first formed into blocks, then precisely carved into individual façade elements using advanced robotic technology. The resulting envelope visually integrates the museum with the historic fabric of Valletta.
Restoration and conservation are integral to the ongoing work at St John’s Co-Cathedral. As part of the museum project, several key features have undergone restoration, including the timber balcony overlooking Merchant Street, the façades of the internal courtyard, and the Caravaggio Wing at the corner of Merchant Street and St John Street. Restoration is also progressing on the historic staircase leading to the Bartolott Crypt, which has itself been restored to house and display the Silver Collection.
Video: St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum Project Enters New Phase
Press: St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum Project Enters New Phase