19 June, 2025
Bank of Valletta announced its support towards Marsa Holy Trinity Church in a significant restoration project involving four iconic paintings by the renowned Maltese artist Gianni Vella. These monumental works, dating back to 1912, are now being carefully restored to their original glory.
The four paintings, each measuring an impressive 2.25 metres by 4 metres, are located in the choir of the Holy Trinity Church and represent Vella’s early ecclesiastical phase. The artworks being restored include St John baptising Christ in the River Jordan, Abraham Genuflecting in front of the three Angelic Visitors, The Sending of the First Apostles, and God Breathing Life into Adam.
These paintings showcase Vella’s mastery of translucent glazes, a technique that characterized his early work before he transitioned to a bolder, impasto style influenced by Italian Macchiaioli artists. Rather than drawing influence from Cali, Pisani or Palombi, Vella’s work comes closer to that of Silvio Galimberti and Francesco Grandi.
The conservation work, undertaken by Pierre Bugeja of Prevarti Co Ltd, has already seen the successful completion of two of the works of art, The Sending of the First Apostles and God Breathing Life into Adam, now returned to their pride of place within the Church.
Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer, accompanied by Charles Azzopardi, Head CSR & Events, visited the Church on the day that the works of art were reinstalled in their original locations within the church. They were given a warm welcome by Father Dominic Mangani, Parish Priest of Marsa Holy Trinity Church.
Ernest Agius, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s truly inspiring to see these historic artworks restored to their former beauty. This project is a testament to our commitment to preserving Malta’s rich cultural heritage, and it is truly an honour to play a part in ensuring the longevity of these masterpieces so that they can be enjoyed by future generations.”
Charles Azzopardi also commented on the significance of the restoration. “Our collaboration with Marsa Holy Trinity Church reflects our dedication to supporting the arts and the community. By restoring these paintings, we are not only preserving important works of art but also contributing to the cultural and spiritual fabric of Malta.”
Expressing his gratitude for the Bank’s support, Father Dominic Mangani expressed his gratitude for the restoration efforts. “These paintings are integral to the history and identity of our Church and our community. The restoration has revived their spiritual essence, and we are deeply thankful to the Bank for their support in preserving this invaluable part of our heritage.”
The remaining two paintings, St John Baptising Christ in the River Jordan and Abraham Genuflecting in Front of the Three Angelic Visitors, are currently undergoing restoration and are expected to be completed in the coming months.
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