19.07.2000

 
 

No. of stamps in the set:	5 stamps
Quantity:
Face values:	2c, 6c, 16c, 20c, 50c
Size:	55 x 32.8 mm
Presentation:	Sheets of 10 stamps
Colours:	Multi
Gum:
Paper:
Perforation:	13.75 per 2 cm
Print technique:	Offset
Author, design:	Martin Bonavia
Printers:	Bundesdruckerei GmbH

First Day Cover:

 

Fireworks, or pyrotechnics, as they are also referred to, Involve an aesthetic arrangement of various fire-pro|ucing elements, the term ''fire'' being here made use of in its widest possible sense. Civilian pyrotechnics, as opposed to military pyrotechnics, have been described as being an art, a science and a technique, all three aspects being an intrinsic part of fireworks.

Fireworks originated in China, following the invention by the Chinese of gunpowder, and are believed to have been brought to Europe by Marco Polo, following his travels to the Far East. In Malta fireworks were first introduced by the Knights of Saint John, who used to hold fireworks displays in honour of Saint Barbara, displays which were a far cry from the elaborate and spectacular displays we witness during summer over our skies.

The Maltese were from the very beginning very keen on fireworks, and with the help of some Italians, most probably Sicilians, they quickly learned the skills of the trade. Later on, mainly
during the eighteenth century, fireworks in Malta started to be used in connection with the religious feasts held in various  towns and villages scattered around Malta. Originally, these "displays" consisted mainly in the firing of "maskli" and "giggifogu",   
the latter being in the main Catherine Wheels.

This love for fireworks in Malta continued to develop along the years, the art, science and technique being passed on from generation to generation, and often being considered a closely guarded secret.

Locally, perhaps, the development of fireworks was mainly spurred on as a result of the rivalry existing between the various feasts, each and every festa trying to outdo its neighbouring festa in so far as it's fireworks display is concerned.

This element of rivalry still exists to the day between the various festas in our villages, whilst the displays have become ever increasingly more elaborate and spectacular. Indeed the ever so popular fireworks displays held every weekend throughout the summer months have come to form an integral part of our culture and tradition. It is nowadays impossible to imagine our summer weekends without these elaborate aerial displays which most beautifully illuminate the night sky in colourful prodigal profusion, whilst the ground fireworks whirl and fizz.

Photographs courtesy of Lily Band Club, Mqabba and St Joseph Club and De Rohan Band, Zebbug. Text Dr Michael Falzon and Mr Benny Briffa.
 

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