Malta Hosts European Heritage Heads Forum To Mark 30 Years Of Valletta Convention
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage hosted the 19th meeting of the European Heritage Heads Forum (EHHF), focusing on the 30th anniversary of the Valletta Convention, officially known as the European Convention on the Protection of Archaeological Heritage.
During his address, Minister for Culture, the Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici emphasised that celebrating three decades since the Valletta Convention represents a solid foundation in European policy for safeguarding archaeological heritage. He highlighted that the Convention strengthened the understanding that historical and cultural heritage is not merely a reflection of the past but a shared responsibility and an opportunity for a stronger future, with Malta serving as a living testament to this legacy.
Minister Bonnici also outlined the Government’s strong investment in the conservation and restoration of sites and monuments, with over 40 restoration projects either completed or initiated this year. Thanks to the diligent work of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, the Government is ensuring that this heritage remains accessible to all.
European Commissioner for Youth, Intergenerational Solidarity, Sport, and Culture Glenn Micallef underscored the European Union’s commitment to achieving a balance between cultural heritage protection and sustainable growth. He stated that cultural heritage is an intrinsic part of European identity and that it is our duty to preserve it for future generations. He further noted that inclusion, sustainability, and protection lie at the heart of many European initiatives, such as the Creative Europe programme and its successor, AgoraEU. The Commissioner also highlighted the European Heritage Days (EHD), a joint programme by the Council of Europe and the European Union, which creates opportunities to celebrate Europe’s cultural heritage.
Concluding his address, Commissioner Micallef urged the nations represented at the Forum to continue giving cultural heritage the importance it deserves and to work alongside the European Commission and European Parliament in this crucial mission.
Superintendent of Cultural Heritage Kurt Farrugia noted that the conference provided an invaluable opportunity for heads of European cultural heritage institutions to come together and reflect on the challenges of the 21st century impacting cultural heritage. He stated: “The strength of this Forum lies precisely in this community, where national perspectives enrich our shared European vision.”
The 19th meeting served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation, where each institution shared ideas and national experiences. In doing so, cultural heritage continues to act as a bridge between the past and the future, and between nations and peoples.
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