Malta Exhibition: Seize the Wave, Seize the Chance

Malta Exhibition: Seize the Wave, Seize the Chance

The Maltese pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, located in the Empowering Lives zone, is a testament to the country's rich history, culture, and contemporary achievements. One of the highlights of the Maltese pavilion is a collection of samurai armour, originally taken to Malta by a Japanese delegation in the late Edo period, which was rediscovered in Malta's armory in 2015.

The restored samurai armour from the Edo period, a significant piece of Malta's cultural heritage, is now set to be displayed at Expo 2025, providing a unique opportunity to showcase Japanese history and Malta-Japan cultural relations. The presence of these historical artefacts at the world exposition symbolizes a bridge between Japan’s rich samurai heritage and Malta’s commitment to cultural preservation and international exchange.

The samurai armour, crafted with intricate detail and made of lacquered iron and textiles, reflects the skill and tradition of the Edo period. The armour also connects to broader Japanese traditions, such as the symbolism of materials like white leather, which was favoured for its heat-reflecting properties and purity symbolism beneath metal armour.

The Maltese pavilion at Expo 2025 aims to create a sense of wonder and discovery for visitors, using a combination of traditional and modern elements. The pavilion features a giant monitor wall depicting a "temporal gateway" and an immersive experience fusing ancient aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Maltese cuisine will be served at the pavilion's outdoor terrace, offering visitors a taste of the Maltese culture.

Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, which begins on April 13, 2025, and ends on October 13, 2025, is a global event celebrating culture, innovation, and collaboration. The Maltese pavilion's participation and the display of the samurai armour are significant contributions to this celebration, showcasing the unique cultural exchange between Malta and Japan.

Fukuzawa Yukichi, the founder of Keio University, was part of the first Japanese embassy to Europe that donated armour to Malta during their visit. This long-standing relationship between Malta and Japan is further represented by three pieces of restored samurai armour, one of which will be displayed at the Expo, symbolising the deep historical and cultural connections between the two countries.

In conclusion, the Maltese restoration and exhibition of Edo period samurai armour is a remarkable testament to cultural preservation and international collaboration. The display of these historical artefacts at Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai provides a fascinating narrative of cultural exchange, celebrating the samurai legacy on a world stage.

The Maltese decision to exhibit the restored samurai armour at Expo 2025 offers a captivating opportunity to showcase the skill and tradition of the Edo period, blending Japanese history with Maltese culture and lifestyle. Visitors to the Maltese pavilion, during the global celebration of Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, will not only experience a taste of Maltese cuisine but also witness a travel back in time through these historical artefacts, symbolizing the long-standing cultural connections between Malta and Japan.

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