Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1513668
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 24 DECEMBER 2023 5 CULTURE Embrace the Christmas spirit at the Grand Master's Palace ON the 26th of December, Her- itage Malta is inviting the pub- lic to take a refreshed look at the marvellous Grand Master's Palace in Valletta, during a day of activities in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund. This day is synonymous with gift unwrapping and the popu- lar fundraising TV programme l-Istrina. To tie into this theme and make it extra memorable, we have prepared a special gift for you to enjoy and share with loved ones, all whilst contribut- ing to a noble cause. It may not be lying under your Christmas tree adorned with a big red bow around it, but its curious facade sculptures, splendid courtyard and luxurious interiors are sure to entertain and make you feel like royalty for a day! On the 26th of December, we are inviting you to visit the Grand Master's Palace to expe- rience it once more as it regains its full splendour under our pro- fessionals' expert hands. It will welcome the public from 10:00 until 18:00, and all proceeds and donations collected during the event will be directed to the Malta Community Chest Fund. The day will start with some marching, as an Inguardia Hos- pitaller-era troop will lead the public from Fort St Elmo to the Palace in the heart of Valletta. These colourful knights and sol- diers will then animate the ma- jestic building throughout the day. Let yourself be transported along the Palace's rich history by joining one of the animated tours, taking place at 10:15 in Maltese and at 11:45 in English. Take a trip back in time to the winding streets with humble rocky dwellings, flickering lan- terns and garigue landscape of the millennia-old nativity story by visiting the exhibition 'The Crib's Journey with St Francis', currently exhibited at the Pal- ace. Down in the Palace's court- yard you can then meet famed feathered creatures which fea- tured prominently in our is- lands' history – the astounding falcons. If you are a confirmed history geek, then we suggest you head to our Heritage Malta member- ship one-stop-shop during this event, where you will be able to acquire your very own mem- bership card to start benefitting even more in your exploration of our local heritage. Students and seniors will also be able to collect their Heritage Malta passport. Top it off at the Orangerie, where the decadent tastes of traditional seasonal sweets and beverages are assured to delight your senses. Our gift shops will also be brimming with exclusive Heritage Malta merchandise you can purchase as tokens of this special day. The President's Office will al- so be accessible to the public during this event. An admission donation of €2 will be requested at the door, and donation boxes will also be available for anyone feeling like going the extra mile in this season for giving.