Holding one of the most sought strategic positions in the middle of the Mediterranean, throughout history Malta has had a front row seat to the major events of every power struggle that took place in the region. In fact, its unique location left the island with a historical catalogue that is rich beyond the nation’s diminutive territory - truly a very tall order for anyone tasked with protecting such a legacy.
Heritage Malta, the government’s agency tasked with the job, manages some 90 sites of varying historical magnitude: from Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological park, to cart rut sites spread around the island, to a growing number of underwater wrecks from ancient times, and many more sites in between.
“Heritage Malta manages and protects several sites of historical significance to the Maltese and their identity, opening many of them to the public for visiting on a daily basis. We are extremely pleased to notice a healthy interest in all that is heritage related, and that is why we have decided to harness this interest into a meaningful programme of patronage,” explains Noel Zammit, CEO at Heritage Malta.
The Gran Salon, located at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta
“The Patronage Programme at Heritage Malta evolved from the need to further recognise the vital role the public plays as stakeholders in our mission,” Mr Zammit continues. “We understood the importance of engaging individuals who share a passion for heritage and are eager to contribute to its preservation. While we had elements of a patronage scheme in place, these were somewhat fragmented. Our goal is to harness the interest and enthusiasm of people who want to be involved in preserving Malta's historical legacy and feel part of it.”
With more heritage to go round than any country could possibly hope for, Heritage Malta invites members of the public as well as corporate organisations to take an active role in the sector.
“It is not primarily about the money, though that is an important element in the equation. In fact, sponsorships and corporate collaborations allow us to venture beyond our limitations and carry out restoration and research projects that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. The Patronage Programme allows us to build a community that cares for its historical heritage – which ultimately is also part of our mission as an agency.”
The Patronage Programme allows individuals and businesses to be directly involved in the success story of Heritage Malta. By contributing, patrons support initiatives such as the restoration of halls, sculptures, paintings and innumerable artefacts from all over the Maltese historical timeline. Research projects help to unveil more facts and knowledge about Malta’s past, sometimes revealing the unexpected. “In essence, participants in our Patronage Programme become an integral part of Malta's heritage, ensuring its continued preservation for future generations.”
Individuals can become members by contributing a small annual fee. In return, they gain access to a variety of exclusive benefits such as monthly events, including visits to sites that would not be otherwise open to visitors due to their sensitive nature. Members of the programme can also enjoy previews of exhibitions, as well as discounts on regular Heritage Malta packages.
Corporate organisations are also invited to be a part of Heritage Malta's story through corporate patronage. In fact, such organisations enjoy a range of benefits.
“As part of our collaboration programmes, we offer sites which are managed by Heritage Malta, free of charge, for companies to use for their gala events, or team-building activities. Depending on the level of support, corporate organisations can also benefit from discount access cards for their teams,” Mr Zammit continues.
Additionally, donations made by corporations are tax-deductible at 150 per cent, providing an added financial incentive to extend their support.
Through our corporate patronage programme, a business becomes closely linked with Heritage Malta's brand, offering a unique and mutually beneficial partnership. One such example is the Bank of Valletta, which is generously supporting the works on the conservation and restoration of the sumptuously decorated Gran Salon within the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. Behind the stocked-up alcove lay a Baroque fresco of the mythological god Neptune holding a trident, dating back to the period of the Knights of St John. Thanks to the Bank of Valletta’s ongoing assistance, Heritage Malta was able to undertake an interdisciplinary investigation to better assess and research the discovery of this early decorative scheme and eventually restore it back to its original splendour.
Bank of Valletta Extends Partnership Agreement with Heritage Malta
Similarly, the Melita Foundation supported research work on an olive grove and archaeological remains in Bidnija. The ground-breaking investigation dated the orchard to the 1600s, while an extensive Ground Penetrating Radar was carried out to help further in the identification of buried archaeological remains – all knowledge that would not be unearthed without the corporate support of the Melita Foundation.
“Such initiatives not only enhance our understanding of Malta's history but also contribute directly to the protection of the Maltese identity,” Mr Zammit notes.
The involvement of volunteers also remains a key aspect of Heritage Malta's operation. Individuals who are passionate about heritage can contribute their time as they assist in various capacities, from helping during open days as well as participating in specific projects.
Individuals can also contribute by willing private collections and other notable objects to Heritage Malta, for proper safekeeping, studying, possible restoration and potential exhibition. “Leaving a legacy behind is one’s appointment with history - a unique way for individuals to contribute to the preservation of Malta's heritage.”
Patrons can donate collections of any nature, ensuring that they will be appreciated, researched, and depending on the nature and importance of the objects, possibly also put on display in the future.
For further information go to https://patronage.heritagemalta.mt/become-a-corporate-patron/
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