The Parish Church of Sta. Maria di Porto Salvo : an art historical gazetteer of its paintings

Abstract

The aim of this long essay is to provide an an historical gazetteer of the paintings, sculpture and other works of art in the Parish Church of Santa Maria di Porto Salvo in Valletta. The works under study mainly pertain to the present collection in this church but diverse earlier works are also taken into consideration. This essay also attempts to give a better understanding of these earlier works by trying to trace the changes and replacements of altar paintings throughout the years. These works shall also be discussed in the context of their artistic importance. All the works shall be discussed in their historical, devotional and artistic context and this is aided by an outline of the history of the church they are in. A brief study of the Dominican history and of related topics is also important to set a background to the works under study. The corpus of works in this long essay is divided mainly into two. One section treats separately the extensive contribution to this church, by Giuseppe Cali. The works are treated in view of other ecclesiastical works, by this artist, in other locations. The other section explores the changes of works, in the chapels and altars, together with studies and analysis of the present works in each case. A final section deals with the two main Confraternities related to the church of Porto Salvo, which by all means have very important connections with this church, both historically and artistically.