Jesuits’ Church reopens following major restoration works

The Jesuits’ Church in Valletta has once again opened its doors to the public after a major restoration programme. The church holds particular importance as the site where the University of Malta was founded, giving it a central place in the country’s academic and cultural history.

Large sections of the church were inaccessible for approximately three years while conservation works were carried out. During this period, religious services continued in the two adjoining oratories, which had already undergone restoration.

The project involved extensive conservation and upgrading works throughout the building. These included the restoration of interior walls, ceilings, columns, windows and marble floors, alongside improvements to electrical and security systems. Structural and external elements — including the roof, dome, bell tower and façade — were also addressed, as were the two oratories. Additional restoration interventions are still in progress.

Officially named the Church of the Circumcision, the Jesuits’ Church is among Valletta’s earliest places of worship and ranks as one of the largest churches in Malta. Constructed between 1593 and 1609 by the Society of Jesus, the building is widely recognised for its layered architectural development and its rich artistic heritage.

Situated at the centre of Valletta, the church continues to function as a venue for religious services, concerts and cultural initiatives. Its historical ties with the University of Malta remain strong, and the university still makes use of the church for formal occasions, including graduation ceremonies.

The interior of the church contains a notable collection of artworks, with pieces by renowned artists such as Mattia Preti, Giovanni Battista Caracciolo, Stefano Erardi and Alessio Erardi.

Responsibility for the church’s conservation and long-term management lies with the Jesuits’ Church Foundation, which was set up in 2021 through a collaboration between Church and State. The foundation oversees restoration efforts, educational and cultural programmes, fundraising activities and the safeguarding of the church’s artistic legacy, working closely with specialists, benefactors and community stakeholders.

The restoration project was coordinated by the Department of Restoration and Preservation, with works carried out by AX Constructions. Financial and institutional support was provided by a range of sponsors, including Bank of Valletta, MAPFRE Middlesea, the Alfred Mizzi Foundation, HSBC Malta Foundation and the Tumas Group, as well as public cultural organisations such as the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, Heritage Malta and Arts Council Malta.