MTF 2024 - In Malta, the international premiere of the exhibition "Under the sea, under the earth"

Exhibition "Under the sea, under the earth" was officially opened yesterday in Malta, in Portomaso (St. Julian's), as part of the prestigious Mediterranean Tourism Forum (MTF 2024). The exhibition had its international premiere in a spectacular digital format, and the opening was led by the Minister of National Heritage, Arts and Local Government of Malta Owen Bonnici with the director of the Tourist Board of Split-Dalmatia County Ivan Vladović.

This unique exhibition of underwater photography, which has already delighted visitors in Biševo this year, in the authentic space of the former military tunnel "Gatula", now has the opportunity to enchant an international audience as well. The exhibition presents fascinating underwater scenes of the Adriatic waters through the lenses of renowned authors and photographers: Dalibor Andres, Danijela Frka, Ivana Grgić, Damir Zurub, Marjan Radović, Srđan Vrančić and Božidar Vukičević. Their photographs not only celebrate the beauty of the underwater world, but also draw attention to its importance and the need to preserve it for future generations.

 "Our exhibition aims to show that the Adriatic Sea is more than a natural resource - it is an invaluable part of our identity and culture. Through these wonderful photos of our top authors, we want to bring the beauty and diversity of our water area closer to everyone, as well as the message of responsibility towards its preservation "The Split-Dalmatia County is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the synergy of the natural beauty and cultural wealth of Central Dalmatia, and initiatives like this help us to further highlight its global potential." she pointed out Ivana Vladović adding that sustainable development and preservation of authenticity are deeply rooted in development goals, and through projects like this the desire is to inspire future generations, promoting a responsible approach that preserves the unique beauty and identity of our region.

The whole event was given a special stamp by the performance Zlatan Stipisić Gibonni, whose music brought the unique spirit of Dalmatia to the festive dinner and delighted the gathered participants of the forum. On that occasion, the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, presented him with an award for his artistic contribution to Mediterranean culture.

The exhibition "Under the sea, under the earth" represents another step in the successful international promotion of Split-Dalmatia County as a destination that combines natural beauty, history and culture, confirming its status as an attractive and authentic destination.

This year's Mediterranean Tourism Forum, also its 9th edition, takes place from November 25 to 27. The theme of the forum, MEDITERRANEAN ARTS – Amidst Rapid Transformational Shifts, emphasizes the preservation of the unique Mediterranean cultural heritage and the development of strategies for the sustainable growth of tourism in the future. The event brought together more than 60 distinguished speakers and 1500 participants from over 35 countries.

The forum is organized by the Mediterranean Tourism Foundation (MTF), founded in 2013, as an independent international organization dedicated to strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors in tourism, with the aim of promoting sustainability and prosperity in the region.

Cover photo: Ivana Grgić (Cropix), source: TZ Split-Dalmatia County