President Gifts Bronze Artwork of Saint Paul by Maltese Artist to the Pope

During her state visit to Vatican City on Monday, 2 March, the President of the Republic of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, presented a significant gift to Pope Leo XIV: a bronze relief of Saint Paul the Apostle, designed and created by renowned Maltese artist Chris Ebejer.

The work depicts the historic arrival of Saint Paul on Malta in AD 60, a moment central to the country’s Christian heritage. The gift, offered on behalf of the Maltese people, highlights Malta’s rich spiritual and historical legacy despite its small size.

Chris Ebejer, commissioned to create this state gift, produced a detailed miniature architectural composition, working closely with a team of craftsmen under his artistic direction. The artist shared insights into the meticulous process on his social media, reflecting the hours of dedication invested to showcase the excellence of Maltese art on an international stage.

This is not Ebejer’s first work to reach the Vatican. In 2010, he crafted a silver statue of Christ the King, presented to Pope Benedict XVI by Archbishop Paul Cremona during a visit to Malta. The new artwork strengthens the spiritual ties between Malta and the Holy See while celebrating Maltese artistic talent.

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