May 14, 2007
On Monday 14th May, a special publication about Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum for children was launched by Mr Francis Borg, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Youth & Employment. This publication, which is available in both Maltese and English, takes the form of a children's activity book targeted at 6-12 year olds, and is intended to guide children around the Museum in an informative yet entertaining manner. The theme of the book is a Treasure Hunt, leading the children from room to room in a journey of discovery which highlights particular artefacts in the collection and architectural features of the building. Children are encouraged to engage in activities such as observation and drawing, and some activities can also be continued at home. At the end of the Treasure Hunt the children are presented with a prize. The Activity Book and prizes are sponsored by Playmobil Malta Ltd.
The preparation of an activity book was originally proposed by Ms Bernie Mizzi, principal of Chiswick House School, who then went on to write the text of the book which is based on research conducted by Ms Michelle Galea of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti. Ms Marisa Attard illustrated the book with amusing sketches which brought to life the character of Captain Olof Gollcher OBE, the collector and philantropist who brought together the collection in his house, and his dog, who accompany the children on their tour.
During the launch Mr Maurice de Giorgio, Executive Chairman of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, made a short address. Patrimonju manages Palazzo Falson by agreement with its current owners the Captain O F Gollcher OBE Art & Archaeological.Foundation. Ms Bernie Mizzi talked about the idea which prompted the publication of these activity sheets. Three groups of children from Alfred Buhagiar Rabat Primary ‘B’ Government School, Stella Maris School, Chiswick House School and St Martin’s College, were invited to attend the launch. Together with their teachers, they then participated in the Treasure Hunt, using the activity book as a guide.
In a drive to promote culture amongst school children, Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum welcomes school groups and allocates guides specifically for them. Teachers are requested to book groups of school children well in advance due to space limitations.
