This room houses an exquisite collection of liturgical silver associated with the Confraternity of All Souls, based at the All Souls Church in Valletta. The 17th- and 18th-century Maltese silver items were commissioned by the Confraternity, a brotherhood composed of Malta’s elite, with Grandmaster Pinto serving as Rector during his reign.
A distinctive feature of many pieces is the Confraternity’s emblem: a soul engulfed in the flames of purgatory, elegantly engraved on the artefacts. Beyond their liturgical and artistic significance, the Confraternity was also committed to the welfare of the poor, reflecting its social and spiritual responsibilities.
Among the treasures in this collection, three objects are particularly remarkable:
- The Processional Cross (Is-Salib Proċessjonali)
Brought to Malta by the Knights of the Order of St. John from Rhodes, this cross was crafted by different artisans across centuries, with its oldest components dating back to the 14th century. It continues to play a central role in the Cathedral’s liturgy. - The Urn of Relics (L-Urna tar-Relikwiji)
Made of wood and rock crystal, this urn contains the human remains of individuals buried in a Roman cemetery. In the 17th century, these relics were entrusted to a Canon of the Cathedral, preserving a tangible connection to the early Christian past. - Decorative Plate (Platt Dekorattiv)
This finely crafted plate was acquired from the British market in the mid-20th century as a gift for Archbishop Mikiel Gonzi. Its elegant design reflects both international influences and Malta’s enduring tradition of decorative arts.
Together, these pieces tell a story not only of artistic mastery but of devotion, social responsibility, and the intricate network of Malta’s religious and cultural history.
