Minister for Culture Owen Bonnici, together with Member of the European Parliament Alex Agius Saliba, launched the exhibition “Malta’s Carnival – Behind the Mask” at the European Parliament in Brussels.In his speech, Minister Bonnici highlighted how Maltese Carnival is one of the oldest and most vibrant cultural expressions in our islands, with roots dating back to the 16th century.He explained that the exhibition presents original elements from Carnival floats, elaborate costumes, archival material, and an immersive virtual reality experience that gives visitors a unique opportunity to step into the heart of this tradition.“Carnival is a living expression of the collective creativity of our people. It is a heritage shaped over centuries and one we continue to invest in to strengthen our cultural identity, both at home and beyond our shores,” said Minister Owen Bonnici.He added that hosting the exhibition at the European Parliament gives important recognition to artists, designers, float builders, and all the volunteers who work with great dedication year after year to bring Maltese Carnival to life.“This is a unique occasion where the European Parliament can appreciate Maltese talent. Maltese Carnival remains a living tradition that connects generations and continues to express an identity and imagination that make us proud to be Maltese,” said MEP Alex Agius Saliba.“Maltese Carnival is a celebration of what makes us Maltese, and as part of our shared European cultural heritage, it is also a European celebration. Through the Culture Compass for Europe, we want to ensure that everyone — especially our youth — has access to culture and can engage with it, both as creators and participants. In this way, we can safeguard and protect our cultural heritage while ensuring it remains alive, accessible, and relevant for future generations,” stated European Commissioner Glenn Micallef.“It is a privilege for Arts Council Malta to support this exhibition at the European Parliament. This exhibition is not simply a celebration; it is an invitation to look beyond the colour and spectacle and understand the cultural depth that has shaped Maltese Carnival over more than five centuries. In a European context, Maltese Carnival contributes to a shared cultural heritage that connects our peoples. At the same time, it is a distinctly Maltese expression, with its language, humour, and creativity,” said Arts Council Malta Executive Chairman Luke Dalli.The exhibition presents a historical journey showing the evolution of Maltese Carnival, with sections dedicated to costume artistry, float craftsmanship, satirical traditions such as the Qarċilla, traditional foods like prinjolata, as well as children’s games and traditional confetti throwing.A virtual reality experience allows visitors to experience the Carnival parade in an immersive and interactive way.The exhibition is being held under the artistic direction of Daniel Cauchi from the Ministry for Culture, Lands and Local Government, with the support of Arts Council Malta and the participation of many artists and organisations active in Maltese Carnival.It will remain open at the European Parliament in Brussels throughout this week.Do you think Maltese Carnival deserves more international recognition? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)•