Rabat’s Historic Heart to Sparkle: St Paul’s Belfry & Streets Get a Makeover

Picture this: you’re strolling through Rabat’s labyrinthine streets, the sun casting a warm glow on the honey-coloured limestone, when suddenly, you notice something different. The familiar facades of St Paul’s Basilica and its belfry are no longer faded and worn, but gleam with renewed vigour. This isn’t a dream, but a reality Rabat is set to embrace.

Reviving a Piece of History: St Paul’s Belfry

At the heart of Rabat lies St Paul’s Basilica, a silent sentinel that has stood witness to the town’s evolution. Its belfry, a prominent feature of the Rabat skyline, is set to undergo a transformation that will restore it to its former glory. The belfry, dating back to the 17th century, has weathered the test of time, but the elements have taken their toll. Now, thanks to a €150,000 project funded by the Malta Tourism Authority, it’s getting a facelift.

The project, set to commence later this year, will see the belfry’s stonework cleaned and restored, its roof repaired, and its bell mechanism overhauled. “We want to restore the belfry to its original state, preserving our history while making it a focal point for visitors and locals alike,” says Dr. Anthony Abela, Rabat’s mayor.

Revitalising Rabat’s Streets: A Walk Through History

But the restoration doesn’t stop at the belfry. The project extends to Rabat’s historic streets, which will be given a new lease of life with improved lighting, better signage, and enhanced pedestrianisation. The narrow streets, lined with traditional Maltese houses, will become more inviting, encouraging visitors to explore the town’s rich history.

Take Triq San Pawl, for instance. This bustling street, home to the basilica and the future site of the restored belfry, will be transformed into a pedestrian zone. “We want to create a space where people can sit, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere,” says Dr. Abela. “Imagine sipping a coffee under the shade of a centuries-old house, listening to the sound of the restored bell tolling in the distance.”

: A New Chapter for Rabat

The restoration project is more than just a facelift. It’s a commitment to preserving Rabat’s heritage while enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. “Rabat is not just a town, it’s a living museum,” says Dr. Abela. “We want to make sure that our history is preserved, not just for us, but for future generations.”

So, the next time you find yourself in Rabat, keep an eye out for the changes. They might just make you see this historic town in a whole new light.