Il-Hagar Museum in Gozo will be hosting two public talks on completely different topics later this month, both of which are sure to prove interesting.

On Friday, the 28th of November at 7.30pm, Joseph Attard Tabone and Dr Michael Refalo will discuss Felice and Pietro Attard, two individuals – father and son – who made a significant contribution to Gozitan society and culture during the 19th century.

Whereas the former is best known for his compilation of the Giuliana Masini (later continued by his son), the latter’s varied activities included his association with Socjeta Filarmonika La Stella. Controversy has surrounded his role; myth and fiction have long competed with historical fact.

This public talk examines Pietro Attard’s role by distilling documented historical evidence from later accretions. As such, it represents an important step towards achieving a compromise in the perennial, long-standing competition and rivalry between the two band clubs in Gozo’s main town.

The talk will conclude with the official launch of the speakers’ new book, Felice and Pietro Attard: Family, Profession, Interests and Passions, which explores in greater depth the lives and legacies of the talk’s protagonists. This event is being held in collaboration with Kite Group.

The following morning, on Saturday, the 29th at 11am, renowned Gozitan psychiatrist Prof. Anton Grech will explain how cannabis has been used by humans for many years to alter mental states, leading to divided opinions about its effects.

Some view cannabis as a source of serious problems, including an increase in accidents in Malta, while others regard it as the holy grail – a remedy for numerous illnesses.

Professor Grech asserts that scientific inquiry is essential for uncovering the truth about cannabis. In this lecture, he aims to explain, in layman’s terms, the scientific insights into cannabis’s actions and its positive and negative consequences.

He will also draw on his own research in this field, conducted in both London and Malta. This second talk of the weekend is being held in collaboration with the OASI Foundation.

The museum is located in St George’s Square, Victoria.

Admission to both public talks is free, but seat reservations are recommended by sending an email to events@heartofgozo.org.mt

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