The AX Construction team led an intricate restoration project at Jesuits’ Church in Valletta, aimed at preserving and revitalising this historic landmark. The project, which commenced in 2021 under the company’s stewardship in collaboration with the Jesuits’ Church Foundation and the Restoration and Preservation Directorate, employed a range of specialised restoration techniques designed to respect the church’s original architecture while enhancing its resilience for future generations.

Following the successful completion of restoration works on the adjoining oratories in 2024, including the Oratory of the Immaculate Conception, the Onorati Oratory and the sacristy, AX Construction continued restoration activity on the main church throughout 2025. The company was also engaged to carry out restoration works on one of the chapels as part of the wider conservation efforts.

Throughout the restoration process, careful layers of history were uncovered, revealing hidden decorative elements, intricate artwork and ornamental finishes that had previously been concealed. These discoveries enabled the restoration team to bring to light the church’s original character, breathing new life into its walls and adding depth to its historical narrative.

Each intervention was thoughtfully applied, from the delicate cleaning and consolidation of the stonework to advanced conservation methods for the church’s intricate artwork. The project focused on the conservation of structural, architectural and artistic elements of one of Valletta’s most significant historic landmarks. Works were completed in early 2026, marking the culmination of a comprehensive multi-year conservation effort.

In 2026, AX Group is sponsoring the conservation of three 17th-century Mattia Preti paintings in the Chapel of Saint Peter ad Vincula (Rosselli-Massa Chapel) at the Jesuits’ Church. The chapel was commissioned in 1662 by Pietro Rosselli, a merchant and philanthropist, and his wife Alusietta Massa, who commissioned this cycle depicting key moments from the life of Saint Peter. AX Group has also restored the only two surviving portraits of Pietro and Aloisia, originally held by the Confraternity of Our Lady of Charity.

The Rosselli family’s legacy continues in Valletta today through their historic palazzo, once the home of Pietro and Aloisia, now transformed into Rosselli – AX Privilege, a 5-star boutique hotel. AX Construction led its careful restoration, conserving original architectural elements, revamping the 400-year-old fountain, and reinstating iconic features such as the Maltese balcony, while integrating modern comforts. The project highlights AX Group’s ongoing commitment to preserving Malta’s heritage, connecting the family’s history, their patronage of the arts, and the city’s architectural legacy.

Visit the AX Group website to learn more about the paintings and their conservation.