Rabat’s St Paul’s Basilica: A New Dawn as Belfry Restoration and Street Repaving Begin

Imagine standing at the heart of Rabat, Malta’s ancient capital, and hearing the resonant toll of St Paul’s Basilica’s bell tower, echoing through the narrow streets. That sound, silent for too long, is set to ring out once more as a significant restoration project gets underway. But this isn’t just about preserving history; it’s about breathing new life into Rabat’s streets and community.

Reviving a Landmark: The Belfry Restoration

St Paul’s Basilica, a 17th-century gem, is more than just a religious site. It’s a symbol of Rabat’s rich history and a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike. The basilica’s belfry, however, has fallen silent in recent years due to structural issues. Now, thanks to a €1.5 million project funded by the Malta Government, the belfry is set to ring out once more.

The restoration, led by architect Dr. Victor J. Cassar, will see the belfry’s structure strengthened and its four bells, including the historic ‘Savina’ bell, returned to their former glory. “This is about more than just fixing a bell tower,” says Dr. Cassar. “It’s about reviving a sense of community and history in Rabat.”

Repaving Rabat’s Streets: A New Surface for History

But the restoration isn’t confined to the basilica. The project also includes repaving the streets surrounding St Paul’s, from Triq San Pawl to Triq il-Kbira. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving Rabat’s unique character while ensuring its streets are accessible and safe for all.

Local resident and business owner, Mario Vella, welcomes the changes. “Rabat’s streets are a part of our history, and they deserve to be treated with care,” he says. “But they also need to be practical and inviting. This project seems to strike that balance.”

: A New Chapter for Rabat

The restoration and repaving project is expected to take around 18 months, with work set to begin in early 2023. Once complete, Rabat’s streets will be safer, more accessible, and more beautiful. And, of course, St Paul’s Basilica will once again ring out, a symbol of Rabat’s enduring spirit and a call to the future.

As Dr. Cassar puts it, “This isn’t about going back to the past. It’s about creating a future where Rabat’s history is celebrated, and its people are proud to call it home.”