Museum of Visual Arts - MUŻA

Welcome to Malta’s brand new visual arts institution and legacy project for Valletta 2018 European Capital of Culture title. In 2018, the project has been flagged by the Guardian as one of 13 must see new European museums and by Architecture Digest as one of 15 noteworthy brand new worldwide museums which opened in 2018. The collection is laid out in sections inspired by stories grouped into four main themes being The Mediterranean, Europe, Empire and The Artist.  The display is surprisingly unusual as it juxtaposes old masters with contemporary artworks, groups artworks and objects in ways similar to contemporary art installations, presents techniques on videos and interactive experiences complement objects and artworks on display. Key works include those by Southern Italian artist Mattia Preti, British 20th century artist Victor Pasmore and Malta’s own top 20th century sculptor Antonio Sciortino. The building is the historic seat of the Italian knights of the Order of St John with a 500 year old history and is in itself a prime historic site, meticulously restored to expose historic layers. Main historic features such as the main staircase have been rebuilt in contemporary material . You can walk into the main courtyard, which is a public space in its own right, to discover the beauty of the building or explore the culinary experience at its bespoke cafeteria and restaurant serving dishes inspired by and branded to complement the collection on display.  A tourist information office is also available on site and accessible through the main courtyard. MUŻA is also a net zero building with virtually no impact on the environment as it generates its energy requirements through photo-voltaic cells purposely installed on its roof and lower consumption thanks to the intelligent use of the thermal mass of the building, double glazing and intelligent LED lighting systems. Other Heritage Malta museums and sites in Valletta: Palace State Rooms and Palace Armoury, National Museum of Archaeology, Fortress Builders Interpretation Centre and Fort St Elmo – National War Museum.

Note:

Entrance Fee for students (12 - 17 years) requires ID or Student Card

Operating Dates: All Year except on 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January & Good Friday

Opening Times: Monday to Sunday: 09.00–17.00hrs (last admission at 16.30hrs)