Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici launched the programme of activities for the traditional feast of St. Gregory.
The feast of St. Gregory dates back to the 16th century. In the form we know today, it began in 1781 with a decree by Bishop Vincenzo Labini where it was decided that this feast would always be celebrated on the first Wednesday after Easter. It is also known as the day on which the first swim takes place.
Minister Bonnici said that once again the Government is demonstrating its commitment towards strengthening our cultural identity, including through working together with the respective local councils. “The initiative to mark St. Gregory in this unique way, with cultural activities, music, singing and educational activities, is clearly showing how determined we are to bring our intangible heritage closer to the people, especially children,” continued Minister Bonnici.
Clifford Galea, Assistant Director of the Directorate of Culture, said, “The Directorate of Culture is committed to strengthening traditions that have been passed down to us for many years, and at the same time, making them accessible to everyone, including children”.
The programme will include a Cultural Evening by Wirt iż-Żejtun, ‘Memories and Remembrances with Charles Flores’, animated by sacred harp music by Dr Lydia Buttigieg and a traditional song by Żeppi Spagnol on the Turkish invasion of Żejtun in 1614.
A flower display and work on salt plates, a living heritage that is being worked on so that later this year it too will be considered an intangible cultural heritage on the UNESCO representative list, will be organised on the parvis. The work will be carried out overnight for the public to enjoy on St. Gregory’s Day.
On April 8th, the day will begin with a symbolic walk from XirCammini, the traditional walk that used to take place from Mdina. This time it will take place from Bir Miftuħ in Gudja to Żejtun. Many stalls will be on display for the public with subjects related to intangible heritage such as salt dishes, għazziela and even lace, pavilion shading, and holiday songs.
There will also be special tours for children by professional guide Jeremy Grech so that children can also learn about the history of our country. There will also be a competition with a prize related to this occasion. There will also be activities going on in the surrounding gardens including in Ġnien il-Kmand and even in Ġnien l-Għannejja where the public can admire falconry. Without a doubt, during this feast we are used to hearing Maltese għana which will be taking place in the area of St. Gregory’s Square and there will also be a presentation of Maltese ftira.
This news conference was also attended by the Mayor of Żejtun, Joan Agius, and the Mayor of Marsaxlokk, Steven Grech.
Further details can be found on the Directorate of Culture page https://www.facebook.com/CulturedirectorateMalta .
