European Heritage Days: Craft Skills and Heritage Conservation Practice in Malta
The conservation and protection of cultural heritage are universally recognised principles. However, their practical implementation depends on the transmission and promotion of specialised craft skills and conservation techniques, without which it would be impossible to safeguard this legacy for future generations.
In Malta, higher tertiary education plays a fundamental role in training heritage professionals. Such training and education prepare future Restoration Architects, Engineers, Conservator-Restorers and specialists in heritage crafts. These professionals are equipped to work on Malta’s fragile and valuable limestone heritage, as well as on metals, textiles, glass, wood, and other historic materials.
Furthermore, students are given valuable opportunities to engage directly with the professional world through mentorship, trainee, and internships with several governmental entities practicing in the field. Such work placements include participating in archaeological excavation campaigns, assisting in the conservation of archaeological artefacts within laboratories, and attending site inspections and meetings alongside architects and warranted Conservator-Restorers. Such experiences allow students to gain first-hand insight into the realities of heritage conservation practice and to develop practical skills in real-world contexts.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage also contributes to maintaining professional standards by supporting and regulating the warranting system for Conservator-Restorers through the Board of Warrant of Restorers, and Heritage Skills practitioners.
Preserving Our Past to Build Our Future reminds us that our heritage is not static. By protecting it today, we ensure that future generations continue to be inspired, informed, and connected through the stories of the past. European Heritage Days (EHD) 2026 is taking place all throughout October.
Together, let us celebrate and protect our heritage—not just as relics, but as guiding stories for our future.
