A historical : artistic description of Casa Manresa

Abstract

Casa Manresa, established by the Jesuits on the outskirts of Valletta in the mid-eighteenth century, embodies the unique intersection of late-baroque architecture and a reform spirituality, according to the Jesuits’ ‘way of doing things’. It served as a retreat centre dedicated to the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. Through its design and iconography, including paintings by prominent artists such as Antoine Favray and Francesco Zahra, Casa Manresa provided an ideal setting for meditation on the ‘Four Last Things’–Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell–guiding retreatants in their contemplation of life’s ultimate purpose and preparation for a ‘good death’. The retreat house’s strategic location, nestled close enough to the bustling city of Valletta yet sufficiently secluded to encourage interior reflection, reflects the Jesuits’ intention to offer a spiritual refuge for individuals from all social backgrounds.