The Malta Independent on Sunday
Thomas Smith Group contributes towards Din l-Art Ħelwa’s Our Lady of Victories Church restoration
As part of Thomas Smith Group’s continuous drive to support the community, the company shall contribute towards a new phase of restorative works at Our Lady of Victories Church being coordinated by Din L-Art Ħelwa.
The Our Lady of Victories is Valletta’s first building and oldest church, built in 1566 to commemorate the lifting of the Great Siege on the eve of 8 September 1565. It is also dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, which is celebrated on the same date. 8 September is an important date in the calendar of this church, as in 2011 the church was entrusted to Din l-Art Ħelwa for its guardianship on this same date.
The church suffered a lot of deterioration, both to its structure and to the paintings. Conservation works are ongoing at Our Lady of Victory Church. Din lArt Ħelwa plans to start this part of the project in June, focusing on the external structure including the façade and belfry.
“Every donation helps us save a piece of this national treasure. It is extremely encouraging to see that Thomas Smith Group believes in our cause. On behalf of Din l-Art Ħelwa we thank Thomas Smith wholeheartedly,” said Simone Mizzi, vice president of Din l-Art Ħelwa.
“We are proud to be part of the restoration project. We recognise the importance of the significant work carried out by Din l-Art Ħelwa and in appreciation for their work towards Malta’s heritage, we hope to build aware- ness of the church’s restoration,” says Joe Gerada, managing director.
Din l-Art Ħelwa is a Maltese non-governmental, non-profit, voluntary organisation founded in 1965 by Judge Maurice Caruana Curran to safeguard the historic, artistic and natural heritage of Malta. Since its foundation, Din l-Art Ħelwa has restored and managed numerous cultural sites of immense historic and environmental importance. Din l-Art Ħelwa lobbies for the protection of our built and natural environment.
Thomas Smith is a group of companies offering a diversified portfolio of services in international shipping and logistics and insurance. Visit www.tcsmith.com for more information about the vast range of services Thomas Smith Group can offer.