Four decorated ceilings at Verdala Palace in Buskett have been restored to their former glory.

The restoration of the decorated ceilings, among the main attractions of the palace, was entrusted to Heritage Malta.

They all follow the same typology with a central medallion and framed segments carrying different references to the Magistry of Vilhena, his coat of arms and armorial references.

The wood soffits on which the paintings have been executed have suffered due to changes in atmospheric conditions over almost 300 years, resulting in considerable damage.

The site of this palace originally housed a small hunting lodge built by Grandmaster Jean Parisot de la Valette. The present structure was erected by Grandmaster Fra Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle in 1586.

The first floor of the palace was remodelled in Baroque times during the Magistry of Grand-master António Manoel de Vilhena (1722-1736). The decorated ceilings date to this period.

Apart from being an architectural gem, Verdala Palace has played many roles in its history. These include acting as a repository for the National Museum of Arts during World War II and hosting dignitaries during their stay in Malta, including King George V and Queen Mary in 1912, Prince Albert in 1913 and later King George VI in April 1943, among many others.

The palace will hold its first open day on December 26.

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