Bank of Valleta (BOV) has supported the restoration of three religious paintings, known as Sotto Quadri, which are kept at the Sancturary of Our Lady of Graces Church in Żabbar.

Two of the artworks – The Sacred Heart of Jesus and Sacro Cuore – were painted in 1949 by renowned Italian artist Giovanni Battista Conti. The Sacred Heart of Jesus, now placed at the Altar of Our Lady of the Rosary, portrays Christ with open arms against the backdrop of the Grand Harbour. Sacro Cuore depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, surrounded by clouds.

Sacred Heart of Jesus (before and after)

The third painting, Saint Paul, reflects Żabbar’s deep historical and spiritual connection to the saint. Though the artist remains unidentified, the piece is believed to date back to the early 20th century. Today, it holds a prominent place beneath the titular painting of Our Lady of Graces at the sanctuary.

Sacro Cuore (before and after)

The official inauguration of the restored paintings took place on 31st May, underscoring BOV’s efforts to “preserve Malta’s rich cultural and religious heritage.”

The oil-on-canvas artworks were restored under the guidance of Amy Sciberras, Lead Conservator and Founder of ASC Conservation Centre Limited. 

“This restoration was not just about reviving old paint – it was also about preserving stories, faith, and identity,” she said. Ms Sciberras described Conti’s works as “incredibly moving,” noting that his brushwork captures a timeless spiritual essence.

Fr Roderick Camilleri, Parish Priest of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces, expressed heartfelt appreciation: ““We are truly grateful to Bank of Valletta for their continued support and to all who made this restoration possible. These paintings are true symbols of devotion and reminders of the deep roots of faith in our community.”

Saint Paul (before and after)

Ernest Agius, BOV’s Chief Operations Officer, said: “At Bank of Valletta, we believe in giving back to our communities and safeguarding the artistic and cultural treasures that define us as a nation.”

He continued: “The paintings – The Sacred Heart of Jesus, Saint Paul, and Sacro Cuore – have deep spiritual and historical significance for the people of Żabbar, and we are proud to be part of this important project, restoring works of art that continue to inspire generations of both faithful and visitors."

Marking the 50th anniversary of the 1975 RAF Vulcan bomber crash, this initiative takes on added significance, paying tribute to the resilience and solidarity of the people of Żabbar.