Editor's foreword : caring for our heritage

Abstract

As Chair of Heritage Malta's Research Committee I feel honoured to have been asked to write the Foreword to this first publication of a collection of research papers showcasing the breadth, and depth, of Heritage Malta's research interests. These papers were presented during a public seminar held at the Aula Magna of the University of Malta Valletta Campus on 13 September 2013. The very well attended seminar showcased this research to an audience which included scholars, academics, students, Cultural Heritage professionals and interested individuals. This seminar also formed part of the celebrations of the 10 th anniversary of the establishment of Heritage Malta as the National Agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage. As I had remarked when addressing the closing session of the conference, this was the brainchild of Heritage Malta's Research Programme SubCommittee which I chair and which was set up to enable and promote all possible aspects of research related to the sites, museums and collections under the care of Heritage Malta. The members of this subcommittee envisaged this conference as a vehicle for presenting, on as wide a scale as possible, this sterling work which is not usually much promoted at the local level. The high response generated was however not expected. Although we knew that much sound research was going on, we were extremely pleased to note that so many professional staff were willing to show, explain and discuss the scientific work which goes on quietly, but continuously, behind the scenes. This is a true reflection of some of the excellent work carried out by Heritage Malta's dedicated staff. The nine papers presented in this concise but significant volume ably mirror the previously mentioned wide range of research activities which are a fundamental part of Heritage Malta's work. They also provide a good insight into the research that goes on behind the walls of museums, archaeological sites, conservation studios and scientific laboratories, which is an essential part of Heritage Malta's commitment to the preservation of our past, and its presentation to the world at large, with its diverse and multiple audiences, and their varied desires and needs.