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THE OFFICIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

MALTA 0 2 . o N e u s s I NATIONAL EVENTS - PLACES OF INTEREST HERITAGE - SPORT - RESTAURANTS & MUCH MORE...

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RMF Publishing & Surveys Ltd. In collaboration with DecemberDecember 0808 SSSSSh... Captivating Gozo!

Small and beautiful as it is, Gozo cannot be seen in just one day. As a place to relax, ‘hang out’ and live the good life the island is unsurpassed. After you set foot on Gozo, you’ll know why you need more than just a day to savour it’s leisurely charms. The more you enjoy your visit to Gozo, the more likely you are to return, and to recommend the island to others. If you are intrigued by this beautiful island’s ability to create ‘Gozo fanatics’ like ourselves, then plan a visit. We always stay for more than just a day. It’s the secret hideaway of all Maltese. Which is why we would prefer to leave it undiscovered by you. But it’s in our nature to share the best we have with visitors. 03 Contents 11/23/08 5:12 PM Page 1

MALTA MALTA

Contents Tourist Information ...... 4 Heritage ...... 5 Museums & Heritage Sites ...... 6 Exhibitions ...... 8 Performances ...... 14 Festivals...... 19 Sports ...... 19 Theatre ...... 20 Gardens ...... 22 Eating Out...... 23

Maps: RMF Publishing & Surveys Ltd Sliema/St.Julian’s ....26-27 Publisher Rabat/...... 28 Mario Zahra Birgu ...... 29 Advertising Sales Executive Bugibba/St. Paul’s Bay..30 Josephine Casabene Valletta ...... 31

Compilation While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy Sandra Zahra of the information given in this booklet, no liability can be accepted by RMF Publishing and Surveys Limited for any error, omissions, or changes in the information Mapping given, or for the consequence of any reliance on the © 2008 RMF Publishing & information. Surveys ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in [email protected] a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, Contact Events Malta on: or otherwise - without the prior permission in writing from the publisher. This publication may not be resold, hired Tel: (+356) 21220766 out, or otherwise disposed of by way of trade in any form e-mail: [email protected] of binding, or cover other than that with which it is published, without the prior consent of the publishers. 100, G’Mangia Hill Pieta’ MSD1313 Malta. This edition was published in December 2008. © 2008 Published & Designed: RMF Publishing & Surveys ltd. 04 Tourist Info. 11/23/08 5:18 PM Page 1

Tourist Info. Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority point to point, services. The islands. Cyclists should Tourist Info. cost of a bus route ranges remember to always follow from 15 cents to 70 cents.The the highway code and clearly longest bus journey takes hand signal their intentions. about fifty minutes; the aver- age ride is between 20 and 30 minutes.

Driving Driving is on the left. There is a speed limit of 80 kilome- tres per hour on arterial roads and 40 kph in urban areas.

Public Transport Cycling Boat Hire Malta’s public transport sys- Cycling became popular again Canoes, rowing boats, sailing tem offers a cheap and effi- since the introduction of all boats, pedalos and speedboats cient way of touring the Island. terrain cycles (ATBs), which are available for hire from a The main bus terminus is in are ideally situated to Malta number of operators in the Valletta from where buses and Gozo. ATBs and bicycles more popular seaside resorts. operate to all parts of Malta, may be hired from various Larger vessels and yachts are although there are also direct, cycle shops throughout the also available for charter.

4 Events Malta - December 08 05 Re-enactments/feasts 11/23/08 9:41 PM Page 1

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Heritage

Cultural Tour Cultural Tour Visiting Birgu, mini-tour with an electronic guide. The Norman house in Vittoriosa. Crossing to Senglea on a Maltese traditional boat. St Julian’s chapel and Fort St Michael in Senglea. More information may be obtained Knights Palazzo Parisio & from the Malta Council for Spectacular 1565 Gardens Culture and the Arts, 230 Dinner Show Republic Street Valletta, by not An action packed musical 19th century Maltese Palace, later than Wednesday before spectacle with 50 talented home of the Marquis Scicluna the respective tours. performers and 8 trained family, with a history, architec- ¤º 14 December horses. Patrons are served a ture and interior unique in 21232515, 21245168 3 course dinner with free Malta. A glorious showcase flowing wine and beverages of Maltese and Italian crafts- Republic Day as the Knights of St. John in manship with an ornate gild- On December 13,1974,the consti- shining armour, vanquish the ed, mirrored ballroom remi- tution of Malta was substantially lavishly dressed warriors of niscent of Versailles. revised, transforming the former Suleiman the Magnificent in u Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar British colony from a Comm- the epic siege of 1565. NXR 1700 onwealth Realm into a republic u The Arena, Montekristo º Open everyday (except within the Commonwealth. This Estates, Hal Farrug, l/o Siggiewi. 24th, 25th Dec & 1st Jan) occasion is marked every year on º Every Thursday at 9am-6pm. Last admission 13 December, as Republic Day. 7.30pm.Tickets: Adults €48, 4.30pm. Tickets: Adults €9, Children under 12: €24. Students €6, Children €4.50. Republic Day - Malta v Free transport available v 54, 55, 56, 65 Trooping of the Colours Parade ¤ 21228065, 99991565 ¤ 21412461 with the participation of the Armed Forces of Malta at St George’s Square and band marches along Republic Street, Re-Enactments Valletta.Activity organised by the In Guardia uniforms to demonstrate to National Festivities Committee. A historical re-enactment the Grand Bailiff its military u Valletta that portrays an authentic prowess.The duration of the º 13 December historical event. This is the show is of roughly 40 min- v All Buses regular inspection of the utes. fort and garrison by the u Fort St. Elmo,Valletta. Republic Day - Gozo Grand Bailiff of the Order of º 14 December. Tickets: Commemoration of Republic Day. the Knights of St. John in €4.66 adults, €1.16 chil- u Independence Square, charge of military affairs. dren (aged 6 - 12), €2.33 Victoria, Gozo During the re-enactment students. º 13 December the fort's garrison (some 70 v All Buses v All Buses in all) is dressed in its best ¤ 23696073/4 ¤ 21556125

Events Malta - December 08 5 06 heritage 11/23/08 5:23 PM Page 1

Heritage Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Museums & Heritage Sites National Museum of v 89, 65, 80, 81, 84, 86 v 89, 65, 80, 81, 84, 86 Natural History, Mdina ¤ 21455951 ¤ 21450267 The 18th century Magisterial The Mdina Dungeons Palazzo Costanzo Palace of Justice currently Medieval Times holds over 10,000 rocks and In a series of secret under- An elegant Baroque palace minerals, over 3,500 birds, ground passageways, cham- built in the 17th Century eggs and nests, 200 mam- bers and cells, a number of offering a medieval adven- mals, over 200 fish species events have been re-creat- ture using wax figures, light, and thousands shells and ed to portray historic sound and smell. The history insects. A must for nature & events from the dark and starts from the 14th and uhistory lovers. turbulent side of Maltese 15th century and depicts , St Publius uhistory. family life and Maltese Square, Mdina St. Publius Square, Mdina trades. º Open Monday - Sunday: º Winter hours: Monday - u 26,Triq Villegaignon, Mdina 9am – 5pm (last admission Saturday 9.30am - 4pm. º Monday – Saturday: 9.30am 4.30pm). Tickets: Adults: €2.33, Sunday 9.30am - 4.30pm. – 6.30pm. Tickets: Adults: Children between the ages of 6 Summer hours: 9.30am - Lm1.25, Children: 60c and 12: €0.58, Students & Senior 4pm.Tickets: Adults: €4. Family v 89, 65, 80, 81, 84, 86 Citizens: €1.25, Infants: Free pack €9.50. ¤ 21454625

6 Events Malta - December 08 07 wirt artna.qxd 11/23/08 5:24 PM Page 1

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Heritage to Malta. For hundreds of years, it also doubled as the official public time marker from where a gun was fired at sunrise, noon and sunset to provide the pub- lic with the exact hour of the day.The first and last soundings indicated the time when all town gates where to be opened or closed. The noon- day round was meant for Malta at War Museum, mariners to calibrate their time- Vittoriosa The Saluting Battery, A vast wartime underground air Valletta pieces on board for navigational reasons. After all these cen- raid shelter formed by a labyrinth Sited at Valletta’s best vantage turies, the old tradition of firing a of hand excavated tunnels. Used point under the Upper Barracca gun at noon (12pm) still takes throughout WWII as a regional Gardens and overlooking the place here daily. Guided tours of civil protection centre and under- Grand Harbour, the Saluting the battery are offered before ground accommodation for Battery is still equipped with and after the display at 11am some 500 persons during the original cannon. In the past, it and 12.30pm. Open: Daily 10am raids. The interior of this proper- served both to defend the har- and 1.30pm. Free transport ty has been faithfully restored and bour and as an official ceremo- from this site to the Malta at reconstructed to its original state. nial platform from where gun War Museum and Fort Rinella Entrance is from Couvre Porte salutes would be fired to hon- leaves daily at 12.15 and Gate,Vittoriosa (across from the our visiting dignitaries or vessels 1.15pm. bus station) through a permanent display of original artefacts dedi- Fort Rinella, Kalkara cated to the daily life in wartime Fort Rinella is Malta’s only his- Malta.This Museum also compris- toric live-museum. It is a unique es a wartime movie produced in example of late 19th century 1942 by the Crown Film Unit on military engineering in being the express wish of H.M. King built as a steam-powered George VI to document the mechanical war machine to heroic stand of the Maltese dur- house and power the world’s ing the conflict. Length of film is largest gun ever made – the 20mins. Open Daily 10am – 4pm. Armstrong 100-ton gun. This gun still survives in this fort. In its All buses to Vittoriosa or follow time, it could fire a one-ton shell up to a distance of 8-miles at signs to Three Cities and then which range it could pierce 21inches of ship armour. local signs to museum. This fort has been painstakingly restored by volunteers back to its original state. A historical re-enactment takes place here daily FREE TRANSPORT is offered from the Saluting Battery to the at 2.30pm recreating aspects of the daily life of the Victorian gar- Malta at War Museum and Fort rison. This includes live cannon and musket firing. A brand new Rinella daily departing at 12.15 audiovisual is also available which outlines the colourful history of and 1.15pm. Intermediate free the fort and its monstrous gun. Open: Daily between 10.00am trips are also available between the last two attractions through- and 5.00pm. Guided tours and film shows are offered on the out the day . hour till 1.00pm after which there will be the historical re-enact- Tel. 21800992, 21803091; email: ment. Directions: Bus No.4 to Kalkara from Valletta bus station or [email protected]; follow signs to Three Cities and local signs to fort. www.wirtartna.org

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Theatre Exhibitions Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority

u Main Hall, St. James Marmara, Sue Mifsud - consists Cavalier,Valletta of ceramics teachers, Malta º 1 - 7 December Society of Arts prize winners v All Buses and mature Ceramics Degree ¤ 21223200 students each with many years of exhibiting and practical expe- rience in their chosen medium. How Do You Look? The exhibits will show the The aim of the exhibition is to immense diversity of clay and Festival Of Colours highlight our perception of the many varied techniques Colour lovers are bound to beauty as a visual society which can be used in producing be drawn to Pippa Toledo’s which is increasingly orientat- ceramic objects of highly cre- latest collection of artwork. ed towards image and its near ative and artistic value. Some of the paintings are constant use.The same exhibi- u Heritage Malta, Merchant very vibrant and bright, while tion will also serve as a launch Street,Valletta others are softer and stormi- for SHELL, the bookazine 1 - 8 December er. For this collection Pippa which showcases the work of º All Buses has used mixed mediums to 50 local hairdressers and v create the desired results. make-up artists working in col- Her inspiration comes from laboration with the Art Diaries of Existence An exhibition of paintings by all around her – both home, Director and photographer, Mark Sagona.The exhibition is away and life in general, but it Pierre Camille. This project of considerable importance in was especially sparked by a aims to bring together the the artist’s journey and recent trip to India. vision of a group of creative process of maturity since it u Gallery G, 4, Sir Ugo people working together to marks a definite break with Mifsud Street, Lija present messages about beau- his past works. This new col- 1 - 3 December. ty that are highly personal. º lection marks a new phase in Weekdays 9am - 5pm. Using tools of the trade and the artist’s career and is char- Saturdays 9.30am - 12.30pm. more often than not the acterised by spontaneity, v 41, 49, 54, 55, 58 human body as a canvas, they directness, emotional intensi- ¤ 21421984/5 have created images that allow ty and large scale. us to explore different avenues u The Loggia, National A Diary of Obsessions of thought. Perspectives shift Museum of Fine Arts,Valletta. John Busuttil Leaver is as what could have once been 1 - 14 December. Monday exhibiting 22 works planned considered grotesque is shown º - Sunday 9am - 5pm. Last and painted over a period in a new light and a new kind of admission 4.30pm. Free ranging from 3 to 10 years. beauty emerges. admission. Some of these paintings refer u St. James Cavalier,Valletta All Buses to feminility but without º 1 - 7 December v using the nude. Others v All Buses express disappointment with ¤ 21223200 dEVIATIONS over urbanization, and some The exhibition by artist Cedric use the tree as a symbol of Out of Fire Galea Pirotta, is made up of 32 harmony and wisdom “lost”. A collective ceramic art exhibi- paintings and drawings - most Other obsessive themes are tion featuring the work of seven of which have never been the bastions, cliffs and Yungian local ceramic artists. The group exhibited before. Apart from archetypes such as “boats” - Barbara Attard Pettett, Julie the style to which he has now and “birds”, expressed with Apap,Talia Maggi, Zell Osborne, been associated with - that of an original technical twist. Rosella Schembri, Deborah pen, ink and wash, he ventured

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Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Exhibitions

to a new branch and style in Street,Victoria, Gozo Arts and Crafts some of his works. In º 1 - 31 December Exhibition "dEVIATIONS", there is a v All Buses An annual exhibition organ- range of expressions – pen ¤ 99804774 ized by the Malta Society of and ink, watercolour, airbrush Arts, Manufactures and and a mixture of all. Some Sculptures Exhibition Commerce. It includes works are very detailed while Exhibition of sculptures by ital- works prepared by students others are more graphical – ian artist Paolo Spoltore. that attend the arts and hence the title. u Cittadella Centre for crafts courses organized by u Gallery Last Touch, Main Culture & Arts,Victoria, Gozo the Society at Palazzo de La Street, Mosta º 1 - 31 December Salle. Exhibited works º 1 - 21 December v All Buses include those from the art v 43, 44, 45, 47, 49, 50 ¤ 21559941 classes, painting, clay sculp- ture, stone sculpture and Art Exhibition floral art . The crafts exhib- An art exhibition by italian ited works include ganutell, artist Rosario Arizzo. monastery, embroidery, u Cittadella Centre for embroidery in gold, lace, Culture & Arts,Victoria, Gozo crochet, parchment, plastic º 1 - 21 December canvas, furnishing, tailoring, v All Buses mixed crafts, model making, ¤ 21559941 interior design, woodcarv- ing and also model ship Il Neoplasticismo building. Cosmico u Palazzo de La Salle, 219 An exhibition of modern Republic Street,Valletta sculpture by Paolo Spoltore. De-Coding Beauty º 3 - 10 December. Monday u Cittadella Centre for Art exhibition by George - Friday 9am - 1pm and 5 - Culture & Arts,Victoria, Gozo Scicluna.This exhibition shows 7pm. Saturday 10am - noon. º 1 - 21 December. Monday sketches dating back to the Closed on the 7th and 8th - Saturday 10am - 4pm. early 90’s when George’s dis- December. Group vists Sundays 11am - 3pm. tinctive style was beginning to accepted. Free admission. v All Buses emerge. He then moved on v All Buses ¤ 21564398 to large-scale monochrome ¤ 21244339 paintings that depict the stat- Art Exhibition ues of the Old Masters. Church Model Exhibition Art exhibition by french artist Characteristic of the next (A 24 feet by 16 feet model Julien Pouget and friends. period is a series of paintings on scale 1:6) This exhibit is u Cittadella Centre for ‘composition of a girl’ which open to the public on the Culture & Arts,Victoria, Gozo carry the style further on. occasion of the feast dedicat- º 1 - 28 December Following this phase, one then ed to the Immaculate v All Buses arrives at the most recent Conception. ¤ 21559941 paintings where colour u 339,Triq il-Merhba, Fgura becomes more prominent. º 4 - 6 December, 6.30 - Etchings Exhibition u Casa Scicluna , Paul 8.30pm Art exhibtion of etchings by Portelli Str.Victoria , Gozo. º 7 - 8 December, 10am - Pawlu Carbonaro º 1 - 31 December 12.30pm, 6 - 8.30pm. u Art….e Gallery, 1, Library v All Buses v 17, 18, 19, 20, 21

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Theatre Exhibitions Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority

Machinery & Tools Fair Live Crib u Malta Fairs & Convention The Ghajnsielem Local Centre,Ta’ Qali Council in collaboration with º 5 - 8 December all the main village organiza- v 65, 86 tions is working on an exciting ¤ 21410371/2, 21414099 project aimed at creating an attraction for the upcoming Virtual Confinement Christmas period. The project An installation by Christopher will be in the form of a ‘live and Victor John Saliba. The crib’ and will be situated in the video art installation Virtual Crib Exhibition ‘Ta Passi’ fields, a large piece of Confinement, consists of two Every year, during the weeks land situated between Mgarr works placed facing each other preceding Christmas, the Road and the main square. in separate enclosed spaces. Friends of the Crib hold an The ‘live crib’ will be called Enclosed in a dark niche, exhibition of works by their “Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem” - opposite a massive and heavily members. About one hun- A unique experience where textured panel, an LCD moni- dred cribs of various shapes visitors will not only view the tor shows a digital projection and sizes made from different grotto but experience the env- of a hand pressing against a media like papier mache, poly- iron of the city of Bethlehem. screen. In this Caravaggesque styrene, cork, etc., are put u Ghajnsielem, Gozo setting, 3D animations show together to offer visitors, º 7 - 31 December delicate and gentle move- locals and tourists alike, the ¤v 42, 43 ments with the palm of the true story of Christmas, The 99459426 hand and fingers that alternate Birth of Baby Jesus. Besides with images of the hand local cribs, made by members Various Media clenching itself into a fist, and of the Society specifically for Exhibition beating violently against the the exhibtion, this year we are An exhibition of painting by Jo screen, as if to break out. hosting 20 cribs from Austria Debono in various media - u Lower Gallaries, St. James which are quite different from landscapes, still life and nudes. Cavalier,Valletta local ones. u Studio 7 Complex,Victory º 5 December - 6 January u Francis Hall, Melita Street, Street, Birkirkara. ¤v All Buses Valletta º 9 - 21 December 21223200 º 6 - 12 December., 9am - v 42, 43, 44, 45 12.30pm and 4.30 - 7pm. Free Cat Show admission. Colourful Journey The Malta Feline Guardians v All Buses Olaug Vethal’s (b.1946-d2007) Club are proud to present the artworks will be displayed at 10th and 11th International Artitude, before travelling to Classic Car Show Cat Shows. The cats will be Jessheim, Norway where her divided into three categories At the Mdina Glass car park. works will be exhibited. that of Pure Breed Adults, Mdina Glass will be holding an Jessheim was her home town Pure Breed Kittens and all open week and visitors may where she grew up- moved to Domesticu House Cats. also watch traditional glass Hamburg, Germany where she Coastline Hotel, Salina blowingu on the premises. got her tuition (hence the Bay, Salina Mdina Glass Car Park, Ta ’ tone of German expression- º 6 December, 1 - 8pm Qali ism in her works) and finally º 7 December 11am - 7pm º 7 & 8 December settled on our warm island of v 68, 70 v 65, 86 Malta- where she painted the

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Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Exhibitions

prolific number of artworks sculptor. Some may say that G over the years, it seems evi- including the villagers, the he could have rendered his dent that this exhibition will bathers, dancers, temples etc works on clay - outlines are be the Red Carpet event of etc. In Jessheim- the people featured in his works and at a the history of Gallery G. will see what Malta is all about distance- they disappear. u Gallery G, 4 Sir Ugo and how it came to influence u Artitude Gallery, Tigne Mifsud Street, Lija the artist from their town. Street, Sliema º 11 - 19 December. u Artitude Gallery, Tigne º 9 - 23 December. Monday Weekdays 9am - 5pm. Street, Sliema - Saturday: 10am - 7pm. Saturdays 9.30am - 12.30pm. º 9 - 23 December. Monday v 61, 62, 63, 6, 65 ¤v 41, 49, 54, 55, 58 - Saturday: 10am - 7pm. 21421984/5 v 61, 62, 63, 6, 65 Cribs Exhibition Annual Christmas Cribs Artistic Crib Exhibition. Exhibition of an artistic crib by u Ministry Hall,Victoria, Gozo Joseph Cutajar. º 9 - 31 December u , Indepen- v All Buses dence Square,Victoria, Gozo ¤ 21561482 º 12 - 31 December ¤v All Buses Omaggio a Malta 21556125 Contemporary paintings exhi- bition. Collective Art u Italian Cultural Institute, Exhibition St George’s Square,Valletta. Exhibition by 35 different º 10 - 30 December artists/ceramists. v All Buses u Art Academy, 131, ¤ 21221462 Constitution Street, Mosta º 12 - 31 December The First Five Years v 43, 44, 45, 47 49, 50 The Directors of Gallery G Maltese Cityscapes will be hosting, what promises Photographic Nudes Goran Cejkov who comes to be an outstanding exhibi- John Grech’s keen interest in from Macedonia, loves to tion.This collection is going to the camera goes back a long paint Maltese heritage land- include a few paintings by way in his childhood. Anyone scapes. The oil paintings, each and every artist that who views his photography which are done on canvas exhibited at Gallery G since can see how the artist is at primed with gesso, are almost its opening - some 5 years ease while handling both still- photographic. Contemporary ago. These artists include ness and movement, light and Realism is what he captures Debbie Caruana Dingli, John shadow. His photography, through different light which Martin Borg, Kenneth Zammit especially his nudes, has come through in different Tabona,Madeleine Gera,Anna acquired a painterly quality in times of the day and night. Grima, Celia Borg Cardona, his chiaroscuro as well as in the The different plays of light Jeni Caruana,The International dazzling use of light. capture different moments: Artist Li Zijian and many u Main Hall, St. James some serene, others uplifting. more. Thus, if one can think Cavalier,Valletta He also captures three dimen- back at the large variety of º 12 December - 16 January sionality, which also comes names, styles and mediums of v All Buses from his experience as a the exhibitions held at Gallery ¤ 21223200

Events Malta - December 08 11 18 HSBC 10/23/08 10:07 AM Page 1 13 exhibitions 11/23/08 9:42 PM Page 1

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Exhibitions Contemporary Icons photos about Christmas in This exhibition of paintings by Xaghra from the archives artist Joseph Farrugia consists of Photographer Joseph of works that have been pro- Camilleri and mini-cribs duced over the past eight with the collaboration of years. As is typical of Joseph’s Ghaqda il-Milied fix- works, this set of paintings is Xaghra – Society of the result of focused medita- Christine Doctrine (Boys), tion on a select number of Xaghra. objects. In this particular col- u Xaghra, Gozo Artistic Christmas Crib lection, which evolves from º 20 December - 4 January, An artistic nativity scene the artist’s earlier work, the 6 - 9pm (Presepju) by Victor Agius paintings translate inspirations, v 64, 65 covering 100ft sq with biblical originating mainly from scenery and handmade fig- medieval iconography and Live Crib urines (pasturi). Please call for psychedelic rock music, into A Biblical and Artistic group bookings. contemporary meditations on representation of the u Ggantija Art Gallery, John existence and spirituality. The Nativity. Otto Bayer Str, Xaghra Gozo; solitary human presence u Old Farmhouse near (near Ggantija Temples). throughout these works is Nazzarenu Church, Xaghra, º 20 December - 1 January, projected through the anthro- Gozo 5.30 - 8.30pm. Sunday and pub- pomorphic qualities of the º 24 December - 4 January, lic holidays 10am - 12 noon. artifacts used as the basis of 8pm onwards. ¤v 64, 65 these contemplative paintings v 64, 65 79594508. – the silhouette, the jacket, the coat hanger and the paper plane. u Upper Gallaries, St. James Amadeus Chamber Choir Cavalier,Valletta º 12 December - 25 Prelude to Christmas January v All Buses ¤ 21223200

Christmas Exhibition Traditional Christmas Exhibition - Ghaqda Filantropika Talent Mosti. u Ir-Razzett tal-Markiz Mallia Tabone, Wied il-Ghasel The Amadeus Chamber Choir and Orchestra in Street, Mosta collaboration with the St. Julian’s Parish Church will be º 14 December - 6 January presenting the 18th edition of the Prelude to Christmas v 43, 44, 45, 47 under the direction of Maestro Brian Cefai and Michelle Castelletti. Invitations against donation of €5 Christmas Crafts and are obtained from Lotto u St. Julian’s Parish Church Exhibitions office kiosk opposite » Three separate exhibitions BOV Republic Street 18 December, 7.30pm of Christmas crafts, old Valletta or St. Julian’s ) 79200118 parish book shop. v 62 & 68 Events Malta - December 08 13 14 - 17 Performances 11/23/08 9:36 PM Page 1

Theatre Performances Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority From Bach to Piazzolla Joy"; "Hail Holy Queen". Probably one of Italy’s most Several soloists will perform prominent musicians, oboist with the choir. Diego Dini Ciacci and his u The Culture Performance brother Maurizio Dini Ciacci Hall Sliema Band Club, Palazzo (piano) will be performing a Sliema, 34 St.Trophimus Street, programme which will take us Sliema. through the two centuries of º 5 December, 7.30pm. Free development of this magnifi- admission. cent instrument. v 60, 63 u Teatru Manoel, Old Theatre Street,Valletta Alive The Concert º 2 December A Musical Offering 'Alive 2008' will present ¤v All Buses Programme: Nicolo Porpora - Malta's musical scene leader; 21246389 Sinfonia da Camera a tre op Ira Losco and Band, who will 2/6 in Bb major. J S Bach - be the main performing artist, Elements Musical Offering - Trio Sonata and the popular band; The Salesian Youth Centre in in C minor for flute, violin and Bitterside. Both bands will split Sliema will be celebrating the basso continuo. J C F Bach - the three hour show which will 100th anniversary with a Sonata in C major for flute, vio- be hosted by Pierre Cordina BANG! 'Elements', an evening lin and obbligato harpsichord. and Mireille. There's no doubt of dancing and original music, Performers: Sarah Spiteri – vio- that the two bands will leave performed by the youths. lin, Silvio Zammit - flute, the best impression on the Original script by Edwina Ramona Zammit Formosa - audience with their exception- Farrugia. harpsichord. al live-unplugged performanc- u Salesian Theatre, Guze u St. Catherine of Italy es. 'Alive - The Concert' is the Howard Street, Sliema Church,Valletta best place to be if you want to º 4 & 7 December º 4 December, 12.30pm watch your favourite artists v 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 v All Buses rock the stage from a distance ¤ 99839640 at which you can really admire Joy Gospel Singers them! Sacred Music Concert The Joy Gospel Singers will u Beland Club Main Hall, APS Bank Annual Sacred perform popular and Misrah ir-Republika, Zejtun Music Concert by Maltese Christmas selections.This con- º 5 December. Tickets: €10 composers: Anton Nani’s cert is being held as part of the from Beland Band Club. Messa Del Naufrago. This Third Edition of The Sliema v 27, 28, 29, 30 concert is being held with the International Arts Festival. The co-operation of the Joy Gospel Singers with its dis- Rosa Ensemble plays Metropolitan Cathedral tinct Gospel Style of BigLifeHi Chapter and St John’s Co- Interpretation is conducted by In 2008 and 2009 the Rosa Cathedral Foundation. The Mro Michelle Abela and has Ensemble presents her new concert is held under the established itself with its joyful, program: BigLifeHi. In a patronage of H.G. Mgr. Pawl traditional and contemporary small electro/acoustic for- Cremona. music. The programme mation Rosa plays music of u St John’s Co-Cathedral, includes the works "Oh Happy Verdi, Martijn Padding, Valletta Days" ; " The Night That Christ Wilbert Bulsink, Daniel º 4 December, 7.30pm. was Born"; " Oh Holy Night", " Cross and Jeroen Kimman. v All Buses I Will Follow Him"; "Gospel BigLifeHi is a show with

14 Events Malta - December 08 14 - 17 Performances 11/23/08 9:36 PM Page 2

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Performances v All Buses ¤ 21223200

Annual Ballet Show Central Academy of Ballet annual show. u Republic Hall, Mediterranean Conference Centre Valletta º 6 - 7 December v All Buses Valasci Concert ¤ 21243840/3 An hour and a half programme by six young Czech chamber musicians, performing classical music from Beethoven to Mozart Don Quixote and Bach., as well as some Czech compositions and traditional The Central Academy of pieces. Performers: Czech chamber music ensemble Valasci Free Ballet will be producing for refreshments after concert the first time in Malta, the u Sagrestia Vault,Valletta Waterfront full-length ballet of 'Don º 5 December, 7.30pm Quixote'. The production's v All Buses directors Monique Pellegrini Petit and Mireille Coleiro, together with the assistance poetic, experimental, unre- u MITP Theatre, Valletta of Svetlana Salina, are proud stricted, but mostly musical º 5 December, 8.30pm. to be inviting three famous elements. Started as an v All Buses Russian soloists- Elisabeth ensemble for new music, Nebesnaya and Glazova Rosa grew out to be a flexi- Theatrical Unplugged Tamara (both from the ble ensemble which com- Concert by Ira Losco & Band Moscow State Theatre bines the best of new music, and Chasing Pandora. Ballet) and Fomin Maxim electronics and music the- u Teatru Astra, Republic (from Gordev Ballet) to par- atre. Rosa became known Street Victoria, Gozo ticipate as the leading roles with music that is best com- º 6 December, 9pm. Tickets in the ballet. pared to the experimental €15. u Mediterranean Confe- work of Sonic Youth, ¤v All Buses rence Centre,Valletta Radiohead and Frank Zappa. 99550058 º 6 - 7 December The music of the Rosa v All Buses Ensemble carries emotion Chamber Delights ¤ 21243840/3, 9943 2604 which is hard to find in con- Programme: Respighi Violin temporary music nowadays. Sonata, Camilleri 4 Greek Piano Recital The sound of BigLifeHi Songs for clarinet & piano, By Michelangelo Carbonara, reminds of contemporary Brahms Clarinet Trio.The per- Rome, organised by the Sonja ambient pop instead of the formers: Alison Hughes – clar- Sinclair Foundation traditional New Music. inet, Anja Inge - cello, u Kempinski San Lawrenz, BigLifehi is an accesible per- Volodymyr Baran - violin, Triq ir-Rokna, San Lawrenz, formance with theatrical Joanneu Camilleri - piano. Gozo elements which makes the Music Room, St. James º 7 December visitor experience what Cavalier,Valletta v 2, 91 Rosa is capable of. º 6 December,8pm.Tickets: €8 ¤ 21562074

Events Malta - December 08 15 14 - 17 Performances 11/23/08 9:36 PM Page 3

Theatre Performances Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Christmas Show Presented by the Bishop’s Conservatory School, Gozo. u Aurora Opera House, Republic Street,Victoria, Gozo º 10 December, 7pm. v All Buses Terpischore The muse of Dance. Dances for violin and piano. Works by Journey Evolution Albeniz, Camilleri, Monti, Bartok. A live show which Ruth Sammut Casingena is producing and Performers: Sarah Spiteri – vio- directing, under the patronage of Prince Grandmaster of the lin, Alex Vella Gregory - piano. Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, HSH Baron Nicholas u St. Catherine of Italy F.S. Papanicolau GB.GCSJ(H) Baron of Finlaystone Maxwell. Church,Valletta Proceeds will be donated to Puttinu Cares. Following the suc- º 11 December, 12.30pm cess of last year’s Journey, this year she has gone a step further, v All Buses by introducing the harp, drama, musicians, fusion of styles and approximately 50 soloists, a unique educational and entertain- Musical Tidings ing experience for both performers and audience. The New Choral Singers swing u Malta Hilton, St. Julians into the festive season with º 6 December their annual Christmas concert v 64, 65, 68, 70 'Musical Tidings'.The Choir will ¤ 25697313 this year be delivering two per- formances. Throughout the years this annual musical event Prayers to the Virgin has become a regular activity u MBC Theatre, Nadur, Mary for those who enjoy the festive Gozo Programme: Verdi - Ave Maria season. This year's repertoire 7 December (from Otello). Mascagni - Ave º includes a variety of traditional 42, 43 Maria (Intermezzo of Cavalleria v carols by both international ¤ 21566651 Rusticana). Verdi - La vergine and Maltese composers that delgi angeli (from La Forza del are bound to appeal to audi- Orchestral Concert Destino). Puccini - Vissi d'Arte ences of all ages. So join the (from Tosca). Mozart - Ave Mezzo-soprano Kate Aldrich of Choir for an enchanting verum. Bach/Gonoud - Ave Metropolitan Opera fame will evening as they herald the Maria. Performers: Marita star in a Malta Philharmonic advent of Christmas in this Bezzina – soprano, Ramona Orchestra programme of heart-warming activity. Zammit Formosa - piano. works by Mozart, Donizetti, u Assumption Church,Attard u St. Catherine of Italy Berlioz, Rossini, Wagner and º 11 December, 7.15pm. Church,Valletta Massenet under the direction Free admission. º 7 December, 11am of Maestro Michael Laus. v 40, 80, 81, 84 v All Buses u Teatru Manoel, Old u Apostle St. Bartolomew Theatre Street,Valletta Parish Church, Gharghur Musical Programme º 9 December º 14 December, 7.15pm. By the St. Helen band of ¤v All Buses Free admission. Birkirkara. 21246389 v 55

16 Events Malta - December 08 14 - 17 Performances 11/23/08 9:36 PM Page 4

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Performances Austrian Concert Christmas Carol Christmas Soiree Concert by the Austrian string Evening A Christmas soiree on the quartet 'QuarTete a Tete' pre- Wrap up warm and join occasion of the european sented by the Austrian The Ray Zammit Band on year for inter-cultural dia- Ambassador. the steps of Hotel logue,. u St George's Basilica, Phoenicia and enjoy roast- u Cittadella Centre for Victoria, Gozo ed chestnuts and mulled Culture and the Arts,Victoria, º 11 December wine while singing away to Gozo v All Buses your favorite Christmas º 19 December ¤ 21556377 carols. v All Buses u Hotel Phoenicia, Floriana ¤ 21559941 Christmas Concert º 13 - 14 December By Laura Vicuna School v All Buses The Leone Grand u Teatru Astra, Republic Christmas Show Street Victoria, Gozo Beatles Classic With the participation of the º 12 December, 7.30pm. u Republic Hall, Medite- Leone Band and a choir. v All Buses rranean Conference Centre, Musical Director: Colin Valletta Attard º 14 December u Aurora Opera House, v All Buses Republic Street, Victoria, ¤ 21243840/3 Gozo º 20 December, 8pm. The Christmas Story v All Buses Lunchtime concert. u St. Catherine of Italy Annual Grand Church,Valletta Christmas Concert º 14 December, 11am Concert with the Chorus v All Buses Urbanus and the National Philarmonic Orchestra. Carols by Candlelight Monday Ovation u St George's Basilica, Annual event, produced by the Organised by the Malta Victoria, Gozo Schola Cantorum Jubilate. It Cultural Institute. º 20 December consists of a Christmas Concert u The Ballroom, Phoenicia v All Buses at St. Augustine’s Church fol- Hotel, Floriana ¤ 21556125 lowed by a Gala Dinner freshly º 15 December, 7pm prepared by Ta’ Frenc v All Buses Melody and More Restaurant. The dinner will be ¤ 21245168 A programme of contempo- held in the Monastery’s rary Maltese music focusing Renaissance and unique cloister. Christmas Baroque on the works and personali- All proceeds will be forwarded Arias ty of Albert Garzia displaying to Guzeppa Debono Home Lunchtime concert. Perfor- an array of dialects within a which caters for single mothers, mers: Pauline Longo – sopra- common Maltese musical fostering and pro-life activities. no, Alex Vella Gregory – identity u St Augustine's Monastery, organ. u Teatru Manoel, Old Victoria, Gozo u St. Catherine of Italy Theatre Street,Valletta º 13 December, 7.30pm. Church,Valletta º 21 December v All Buses º 18 December, 12.30pm v All Buses ¤ 79055207, 79450950 v All Buses ¤ 21246389

Events Malta - December 08 17 18 performances 11/23/08 6:33 PM Page 1

Theatre Performances Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Meet the Composer - v 64, 65 Orchestra, organised by the Christmas with the ¤ 21563737 Xaghra Local Council under Consort the auspices of the President Programme: Giuseppe Valentini - Barney Live of Malta H.E. Dr Edward Sinfonia a tre per il Santissimo The Let's Go Tour, directly uFenech Adami. Natale op 1 no 12 Giovanni from the UK, is coming to Basilica of the Nativity of Ferrandini - Sinfonia Pastorale. Malta for the Christmas Our Lady, Xaghra, Gozo Giuseppe Torelli - Concerto di Season. Premier Stage Pro- º 28 December Pastorale op 8 no 6. Antonio ductions are proud to present v 64, 65 Vivaldi - Concerto per il the characters from the Hit Santissimo Natale, in E major, Entertainment TV show, Puer Natus Est RV270 for violin, strings & contin- Barney, live on stage. Children, A Christmas Choral Concert uuo. Performers: St. James Consort parents and grandparents can with the participation of the St. Catherine of Italy join everyone's favourite uVoci Angeliche Choir. Church,Valletta dinosaur and his friends BJ, Riff Xaghra Basilica, Xaghra, Gozo º 21 December, 11am and Baby Bop for ninety min- º 28 December v All Buses utes of song, dance and fun. ¤v 64, 65 u The City Theatre, Old 21563737 Christmas Musical Bakery Street,Valletta. Concert º 27 - 31 December. & 1 New Year's Eve uBy the Santa Marija band. January.Tickets from €20. Musical Concert Zebbug, Gozo v All Buses By the Ghaqda Muzikali 23 December ¤ Vizitazzjoni. º 21895072, 79918857 u ¤v 90, 91 Gharb, Gozo 21554882 Musical Concert º 31 December Concert featuring young musi- ¤v 2, 91 Christmas Vigil cians studying locally and 21560556 Led by carol singing with the abroad, dir. Stephen Attard. Laudateu Pueri choir. u Ministry Hall,Victoria, Gozo St George's Basilica, º 28 December Victoria, Gozo v All Buses º 24 December ¤ 21553610 ¤v All Buses 21556377 Christmas Baroque Arias Christmas Concert Lunchtime concert. Performers: uConcert with live orchestra. Pauline Longo - soprano, Alex Nadur Basilica, Nadur, Vella Gregory - organ. Gozo u St. Catherine of Italy º 25 December Church,Valletta ¤v 42, 43 º 28 December, 11am 21558080 v All Buses

Grand Christmas Christmas Concert uConcert By the choir Voce Angeliche Xaghra Basilica, Xaghra, under the direction of Grace Gozo Vella, accompanied by the º 27 December

18 Events Malta - December 08 19 festivals/sports 11/23/08 6:22 PM Page 1

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Festivals/Sports Santa Claus Circus battle in what has evolved into Festivals u Floriana pool's biggest test of nerves Christmas Market º 24 December - 4 January and character. The Mosconi u Sts. Peter & Paul Square, v All Buses Cup has evolved from an Nadur, Gozo ¤ 21346123, 27346123 entertaining exhibition event º 5 - 8 December into a life-or-death struggle v 42, 43 V5 NYE 09 contested by the very best ¤ 21558080 A spectacular celebration along pool players in the world. the water’s edge of the islands u Hilton Hotel, Portomaso, Annual Poultry Fair most beautiful harbour.Witness St Julians u San Lawrenz, Gozo the transition of the year as the º 11 - 14 December º 7 December clock strikes 12 and all the ¤ 64, 65, 68, 70 v 42, 43 crowd unites in bidding a col- ¤ 21556073 lective farewell to the departing Euromed Malta year! The V5 NYE celebration Championship Christmas Village features an unsurpassed line-up The EUROMED Malta Enjoy a varied programme for all of DJ’s, balloons, champagne, Championship is organized the family. The site is to be divided sparklers, party poppers and by the Malta Young Sailors into five parts with attractions for about as many of your closest Club under the auspices of children, cultural activities and a friends as possible to make sure the Malta Sailing Federation. demonstration with different sea- your 2009 starts with a bang! With no less than 120 partic- sonal foods such as Christmas u Valletta Waterfront ipants from eight nations, this logs. In the evening there will be º 31 December, 9pm. regatta will once again carry different bands and singers playing. v All Buses its trademark of yet another u National Park,Ta’ Qali successful event. The racing º 13 - 16 December, 10am Sports programme of the Euromed till late. Free admission. Horse Races is being held in Mellieha Bay v 65, 86 over a 4km course. Horse races take place on Fridays u Mellieha at 7pm & Sundays at 2pm. Carols by Christmas u º 16 - 21 December Light Malta Racing Club, Race- v 43, 44, 45, 48 The town will have its street course Street, Marsa ¤ 99494657 lighting switched off so that º 5, 7, 13, 14, 21 December these will be lit up by a variety of v 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 18, 19, 27 Jingle Bell Run Christmas decorative lighting Get your entire family out for emanating from residences. a day of fun for the Christmas This lighting will be provided in Run and Walk.. Everyone is various ways, namely: Christmas welcome to join. All proceeds trees, cribs, mangers with stat- to help sports programmes ues of Baby Jesus as well as for disabled people. other decorations that are nor- 7km Run: starts from Marsa mally associated with Christmas Sports Club and finishes at festivities. Various concerts will Razzett tal-Hbiberija be held at the Churches and Mosconi Cup 3km Run or Walk: starts from other events in Victory Square The Mosconi Cup will be Zabbar and finishes at Razzett amongst others. staged in Malta for the first tal-Hbiberija u Birgu time ever.Two five-man teams º 20 December. Entry º 20 December, 7pm representing the United States donation €10. v 6 and Europe will gather to do ¤ 21636526 Events Malta - December 08 19 20 21 Theatre 11/23/08 5:59 PM Page 1

Theatre Theatre Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Cinderella immediate romantic attraction This performance is being is translated into comically directed by Lorraine Aquilina unromantic grammar lessons and Francis Ghersci together as they struggle to free them- with Joseph Gatt as Musical selves from the banal constric- Director.The principal parts of tions of party talk. Cast: Jack - this popular fairytale are being Franco Rizzo. Jill - Claire performed by Senior students Waterfield. Waitress - at Drama Troupe while the Loredana Zahra. Directed by parts of the mice, frogs, fairies Toni Attard. Produced by and cooks are being per- Kneeplays Youth Theatre formed by the younger stu- u St. James Cavalier,Valletta dents. A magical tale, a story- º 13 - 14 December book set, fabulous costumes ¤v All Buses Blackbird and songs which are sure to 21223200 David Harrower’s critically capitivate young and old. Join acclaimed Olivier Award-win- the cooks as they prepare a Marcellino Pane e Vino ning play! Blackbird is a tragic fabulous meal for the ball, cross u MBC Theatre, Nadur, love story of 21 year-old Una your fingers as Buttons tries to Gozo and 50-year old Ray who had cheer Cinderella up when she º 14 December an unlawful affair 15 years ago cannot go to the ball, sing along ¤v 42, 43 and now meet again. Ray has with the fairygod mother, 21566651 made a new life for himself, watch the sisters as they strug- with a fresh identity. Una has gle to fit into the glass slipper. Jack and the Beanstalk thought of nothing else since, u Centenary Theatre, Jack and the Beanstalk is a and sets out to track Ray Antonio Schembri Street, heroic tale of adventure, love down, arriving unannounced Kappara and non-stop hilarious fun.The at his office, with shattering º 5 - 7 December story is full of twists and turns consequences. Guilt and raw v 41, 65 involving a cow, some beans emotions are running high as and a very big (and not so Ray and Una recollect their The KYT Festival of friendly) giant. The strong and past. Listening in on their Youth Theatre energetic cast will be led by extraordinary confrontation, Kneeplays Youth Theatre notorious Jo Zette who plays this highly provocative play is debuts with The KYT Festival the dame.With a combination guaranteed to make audiences of Youth Theatre this of magic, comedy, and raucous examine their preconceived December to bring you a the- non-stop fun, Jack and the ideas. As tensions rise we are atrical overdose tailored to Beanstalk promises an unfor- asked to question: when is move you. Everything You Ever gettable evening for children love abuse? And can we ever Believed Is A Lie. (from 3 years up) and adults break free from the shackles u St. James Cavalier,Valletta alike. Jack and the Beanstalk is of the past? Direction by º 12 - 14 December produced, designed and direct- Anthony Bezzina. Cast: ¤v All Buses ed by a team well versed in Manuel Cauchi, Elektra 21223200 the art of pantomimes. Anastasi Written by Malcolm Galea, u St. James Cavalier,Valletta David Ives' English designed by Harry Borg and º 1 - 7 December Made Simple Ernest Camilleri. Musical direc- v All Buses A young man and woman tion by Kevin Abela, whilst the ¤ 21223200 meet at a party and their choreography is by Jes

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Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Theatre Sciberras. Chris Mifsud leading ¤ 21246389 v 2, 91 the backstage team and overall ¤ 21556073 direction by Anthony Bezzina. Christmas Pageant u Manoel Theatre, Old Theatre Street,Valletta 37th edition of the Annual Disney High School º 22 - 23, 26 - 30 December. Christmas Pageant followed by Musical 2 - 11 January.Tickets: €10 - 17 carol singing and Christmas Disney Channel's smash hit (matinees) and €10 - 19 uMass. musical comes to life on your (evenings). San Lawrenz stage! On the front steps of v All Buses º 24 December East High, it’s the first day after winter break. The Jocks, Brainiacs,Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the new year. In Ms. Darbus’s homeroom, basketball team captain Troy discovers that Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. When he calls her, the eccentric drama teacher quickly confiscates all cell phones and assigns detention. Between classes, Gabriella and Troy look at the audition sign- up for the school musical, but the drama diva Sharpay dis- courages them. At basketball practice,Troy tries to shake his desire to sing at the urging of The Remarkable Voyage of Sinbad (The Tailor) his best friend Chad.Taylor, the MADC is proud to present their 31st Christmas Pantomime. science club president, discov- They’ve put together a winning team to ensure that after 30 ers Gabriella’s intelligence and years, the MADC panto remains the number 1 in Christmas encourages her to join the entertainment. Written by Alan Montanaro, who is also playing upcoming science decathlon. the part as the Dame Zeza, and directed by Frederick Testa. FM Theatre Productions’ High Musical Direction is under the baton of Maestro Paul Abela with School Musical is directed by choreography by Alison White!. Set design by Oscar winning set Chris Gatt, Vocal coach is designer Peter Howitt, and Costumes by Covant Garden Denise Mulholland and Designer & Embelisher John Williams. And finally the master of Choreographer is Emma the Jigsaw, Lino Mallia will be stage managing the show! Loftus. u Malta Fairs and Convention Centre,Ta’ Qali u Mediterranean Confer- º 19 - 23 & 26 - 30 December. 2 - 4 January. Weekdays ence Centre,Valletta 7.30pm. Saturday and Sunday evenings 8pm, matinees 3pm. º 26 - 28 December. 2 - 4 Tickets €10, €15, €17 January. ¤v 65, 86 v All Buses 21224011, 79796232 ¤ 21243840/3

Events Malta - December 08 21 22 gardens 11/23/08 9:55 PM Page 1

Tourist Info. Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Gardens plants in Floriana’s Mall and 50 Upper and Lower years later they were moved to Barrakka Gardens the site of the present Argotti Two gardens, facing the Grand Gardens, then the preserve of Harbour in Valletta, both offer- a deceased knight. ing a panoramic view. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer Buskett Gardens the best view since they’re No more than 2kms from more centered and at a much Dingli Cliffs, sitting under the higher level. It was the gift of an watchful eye of Cardinal Grand eighteenth-century knight. The Master de Verdalle’s summer Anglican Garrison Church part- retreat, are Buskett Gardens. ly intrudes upon it. The garden Panoplies of foliage spread their Palazzo Parisio is built on top of a demi-bas- shade over the valley floor, pro- Gardens tion. The Lower Barrakka viding a welcome respite These privately owned gar- Gardens are part of St against the heat of summer. dens rank amongst the finest in Christopher’s Bastion and have There are orange and cypress Malta and have seasonal appeal a view of the harbour. At their trees, irregular cacti, leguminous all year round. The two classic, center is a small Greek-style carobs, aromatic firs and the baroque walled gardens are a folly built in memory of Judas tree, which foretells charming mixture of Italian Governor Sir Alexander Ball, Easter with its pink blossom symmetry and Mediterranean who led the siege against the (this is said to be the tree from colour and perfumes. French in 1800 and subse- which Judas hung himself). u Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar quently became Britain’s first NXR 1700 civil commissioner of Malta.The Hastings Gardens º Open everyday (except French during the 1798-1800 24th, 25th Dec & 1st Jan siege cultivated these gardens. From the National Museum of Fine Arts, it is well worth taking 9am-6pm. Last admission Argotti Botanical Gardens a stroll through the nearby 4.30pm. Garden Tickets: In 1805 the British governor Hastings Gardens, named after Adults €6, Students & appointed a Carmelite friar, a former Governor General, Children €4.50. v 54, 55, 56, 65 Malta’s first professor of natural the Marquess of Hastings ¤ history. He assembled the (1824-26). 21412461

22 Events Malta - December 08 23 eating out 11/23/08 9:31 PM Page 1

Events Malta • In collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority Eating Out

Happy LEGLIGIN is a French-like tavern offering a good selection of both new and old world Christmas wines with special emphasis on the wines of ST.EMILION. Food is served in the "small eats" style, Mediterranean speciality dishes, and a Happy top-notch cheeses and terrines. Open every night except Monday and for Friday late- New Year lunch from 2pm onwards. Food served till very late. u Legligin, 119, St. Lucy Street corner with Old to all Bakery Street, Valletta. ¤79938770 - 21221699

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©2008 RMF Publishing & Surveys Ltd. [email protected] 24 25 Malta map 11/23/08 5:42 PM Page 2 26 27 St Jul-Sli 11/23/08 5:37 PM Page 1

ST.JULIAN’S

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©2008 RMF Publishing & Survey Ltd. [email protected] SLIEMA

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RABAT

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BIRGU © 2 0 0 8 R M F P u b l i s h i n g & S u r v e y L t d . m a p s @ r m f m a l t a . c o m

BIRGU

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27 in Guardia A historical re-enactment of a full scale military parade at Fort St.Elmo Valletta DATES FOR 2008 OCTOBER 5, 12 & 26 NOVember 9 & 23 DEcember 14

Starting at 11.00 am Duration 40mins

A Re-enactment portraying military encounters between Maltese militias and French troops (1798-1800). at Fort St. Starting at 11.00 am Duration 50mins Elmo, Valletta. October 19, November 16

Further information tel: 21237747