Historic Reunion: Malta’s Ancient Cippi Return For A Stunning Exhibition
The ancient Cippi of Malta have returned to their homeland and are now featured in an extraordinary exhibition at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. Titled The Cippi of Malta – Their Story and Voyage, the display will be open to the public until 31st March 2025.
These two marble candelabra, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, hold immense historical significance due to their bilingual Phoenician and Greek inscriptions. These texts were instrumental in helping French scholar Jean-Jacques Barthélemy decipher the Phoenician alphabet in 1758.
Minister for National Heritage, Owen Bonnici emphasised the exhibition’s role in fostering cultural diplomacy. “Their return is not only a celebration of Malta’s rich archaeological heritage but also a testament to the enduring ties between Malta, France and our global cultural partners.”
“These two candelabra are intrinsically linked to the story of our nation. Many of us grew up learning about the Cippi’s role in deciphering the Phoenician language and its ties to the Maltese identity. Having them reunited in Malta offers us an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into our past and heritage,” Mario Cutajar, Chairman of Heritage Malta, said highlighting the deep connection between the Cippi and Malta’s history.
“The reunion of the Cippi in Malta showcases an extraordinary aspect of our island’s ancient history. It’s a privilege to bring these priceless artefacts together, enabling visitors to experience their story like never before,” Heritage Malta CEO Noel Zammit added.
One of the Cippi was gifted to France in 1782 by Grand Master de Rohan as a gesture of academic and diplomatic exchange. It has since been housed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, while its identical counterpart has remained in Valletta. The temporary reunion of these artefacts at the Louvre Abu Dhabi last year marked a historic cultural partnership between Malta and the UAE. Now, thanks to collaboration with the Louvre, both Cippi are once again on Maltese soil.
The exhibition also explores enduring questions surrounding the Cippi’s origins, as researchers continue to investigate how and when they first arrived in Malta.
“The exhibition in Abu Dhabi initiated a research collaboration with the Louvre Museum on the Cippi of Malta. Over the past year, this partnership has flourished, culminating in this exhibition and its accompanying publication,” Sharon Sultana, curator at the National Museum of Archaeology, noted.
Admission to the exhibition is included with the museum ticket. For opening hours, visit Heritage Malta.