Life at Sea

Heritage Malta is organising another edition of Life at Sea at the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu on Sunday 12th February. The event will consist of a re-enactment of life at the Birgu creek during the 18th century. Exhibits on display will be brought to life with the help of re-enactors, historians, and curators, who will provide fresh insight into Malta's maritime past.

Over a short period of years, the Malta Maritime Museum has saved for future prosperity sixty full size traditional boats. Part of this collection, the largest of its kind focused on Maltese maritime craft, will be on display for the first time on this occasion. The museum also houses the remaining ovens which used to bake 6000 loaves of bread a day for the Royal Navy in its heyday.

On the day, the museum will organise tours at 10:30, 12:30, 14:30, and16:30. These tours will be animated by re-enactors who will introduce visitors to various 18th century characters. Additionally, historians and Heritage Malta curators will be present to explain and discuss with visitors particular themes and artefacts. Re-enactors, who will portray the Order of St. John’s 18th Century navy, shall demonstrate hand to hand fighting tactics, artillery manoeuvres, as well as explaining the nasty side of seafaring life. Additionally, the museum's main hall will be transformed into a multi functional educational area where children will get the chance to take part in a colourful and noisy portrayal of Maltese maritime legends and stories.

The museum's tavern will be open serving 18th century Maltese coffee, hot chocolate, pies, and a heart warming soup. Amongst these warm refreshments one will have the opportunity to savour a rich chunky stew, a recipe that dates back to 1812. All the proceedings will go towards the Museums restoration works.

The museum will be open between 09.00hrs and 17.00hrs. Admission tickets cost €3, including admission to the Inquisitor’s Palace also located in Birgu that for the occasion will be hosting a temporary exhibition on the Cult of St Paul in Malta. Heritage Malta members and children 16 years and under enter for free.

Life at Sea 2012 promises to be another amazing day out for all the family. Make sure to visit the Malta Maritime Museum on this its 20th anniversary since opening.