This evening Din l-Art Ħelwa is marking a significant achievement, having been named Heritage Champion and awarded the overall Grand Prix in this category last May in Cyprus.
This award is testimony to more than 60 years of dedication, voluntary service, education, advocacy, and the safeguarding of Malta’s cultural heritage. It is also a well-deserved recognition of the countless volunteers, committee members, donors and sponsors who have supported the organisation since its inception.
Achievements such as this not only underscore the important role Din l-Art Ħelwa plays within our society, but also provide a fitting moment to reflect on the organisation’s purpose and legacy — how far it has come over the years and, above all, why its mission remains as relevant and necessary today as when it first began.
Stewardship of cultural heritage carries obligations.
When Din l-Art Ħelwa was established in 1965, Malta stood at the threshold of a new chapter in its history.
Independence had recently been attained, and whilst our nation was beginning to chart its own future, there were already those who recognised that progress could never be measured solely in economic terms.
These people, including founder Judge Maurice Caruana Curran, recognised that a nation’s identity is not built only through roads, buildings and industries, but also through the preservation of its memory, its character and its landscape.
Six decades later, this principle remains as relevant as ever, and together with the civic responsibility, so ardently felt and nurtured by the pioneers, Malta’s economic achievements in the touristic, industrial and infrastructural sectors have increased and continue to increase stress on the natural, rural and urban environments giving rise to fresh challenges.
In a situation where historic buildings, unique landscapes and archaeological sites might be threatened by the waves of what is turned “progress”, Din l-Art Ħelwa acts as a dutiful guardian, advocating protection, whilst actively taking on responsibility for preservation.
Indeed, one of the most important contributions of Din l-Art Ħelwa has been its ability to convert concern into action.
To date, the organisation has restored over 60 national heritage sites, landmarks and works of art, and it currently manages 19 heritage sites in guardianship, trust or under other agreements.
In doing so, Din l-Art Ħelwa has fostered a culture of stewardship that extends well beyond its membership, since civic engagement where heritage is concerned, has not only gained ground in our society, but it is heartening to note that younger generations are very much aware of this responsibility.
Individuals and organisations have become more engaged in matters affecting the quality of life in their localities, starting with an appreciation of their immediate environments and protecting them at times with vehement jealousy.
This is a manifestation of direct citizen participation, and thankfully it is an element reflecting commitment and service towards society itself, its collective memory and most important its future sustainability.
The work conducted by Din l-Art Ħelwa constitutes far much more than a mere protection of heritage by conserving stones, facades or landscapes. It is also about preserving a sense of belonging.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Heritage is the enduring link between past and present, a constant beacon that guides us where we wish to head in the future.
The work rendered by Din l-Art Ħelwa in the preservation, education, caretaking and safeguarding of our local and national heritage is, an act of trust and confidence in our future.
Europa Nostra’s distinguished recognition is proof of Din l-Art Ħelwa’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Malta’s cultural and natural heritage for present and future generations.
It recognises the exemplary contribution of Din l-Art Ħelwa to heritage protection through sustained commitment, leadership and public engagement.
Whilst I congratulate Din l-Art Ħelwa once more for this recognition, I also thank all those, past and present, who have actively contributed to keeping its ethos alive, ever vigilant, guardians and keepers of our heritage.
May Din l-Art Ħelwa continue to inspire others to recognise that heritage is not merely a legacy from the past, but a responsibility entrusted to us for the future.
Thank you.