Rabat’s Historic Heart Gets a Facelift: St Paul’s Belfry and Streets Set for Restoration

Imagine standing in the heart of Rabat, Malta’s sister city to Mdina, gazing up at the imposing St Paul’s Basilica. Now, picture that iconic belfry, its stonework gleaming, tolling out over the bustling streets below. This isn’t a daydream; it’s the vision Rabat’s local council has for its historic core. The belfry and surrounding streets are set for a major facelift, breathing new life into this ancient city.

Reviving a Landmark: St Paul’s Basilica Belfry

The belfry of St Paul’s Basilica, a dominant feature of Rabat’s skyline, is set to undergo a comprehensive restoration. This 17th-century structure, standing tall at over 50 meters, has weathered centuries of Mediterranean storms and heat. Now, it’s time for some TLC. The project, funded by Heritage Malta and the Rabat Local Council, will see the belfry’s stonework cleaned, cracks repaired, and its iconic bell mechanism restored to full working order.

“We’re thrilled to see this project finally taking off,” says Dr. Anthony Borg, Rabat’s mayor. “The belfry is more than just a landmark; it’s a symbol of our city’s rich history and cultural identity.”

Repaving Rabat’s Streets: A Walk Through History

But the restoration doesn’t stop at the belfry. Rabat’s streets, worn smooth by centuries of foot traffic, are also in line for an upgrade. The project will see the repaving of several streets, including the bustling Triq San Pawl and the quieter, picturesque Triq l-Inquisitor. The new paving will not only improve the streets’ appearance but also enhance their durability and accessibility.

“We want to strike a balance between preserving our history and ensuring our streets are accessible and inviting for locals and tourists alike,” explains Dr. Borg.

: A Revitalized Rabat

The restoration project is expected to take around 18 months, with work commencing later this year. Once complete, Rabat’s historic core will be transformed, with the gleaming belfry and freshly paved streets drawing visitors in and encouraging them to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

For Dr. Borg, the project is about more than just physical restoration. “It’s about reviving our community’s pride in its history and heritage. It’s about creating a space where people want to live, work, and visit. It’s about making Rabat a place to be proud of.”

So, the next time you find yourself in Rabat, whether you’re a local or a visitor, take a moment to look up at that iconic belfry. Soon, it’ll be gleaming down at you, a symbol of Rabat’s vibrant past and exciting future.