Restoration scheme extended to village cores in the Northern region

Picture this: the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the narrow, winding streets of Mġarr. The village square, once quiet, now buzzes with life. Children laugh as they chase each other around the newly refurbished fountain. Their parents sit at café tables, enjoying a cold drink and the gentle breeze that carries the scent of the sea from nearby Marsalforn Bay.

The scene is a testament to the power of restoration. Mġarr, like many villages in Malta’s Northern region, is benefiting from an extended restoration scheme that’s breathing new life into its core. The project, initiated by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) and the Ministry for Gozo, is transforming once-neglected spaces into vibrant community hubs.

For years, many of Malta’s village cores have struggled with neglect and decay. The Northern region, with its unique blend of traditional architecture and natural beauty, was no exception. But with tourism on the rise and a growing appreciation for Malta’s cultural heritage, the time was ripe for change.

“We’ve seen the potential in our village cores for years,” says Dr. Anthony Aquilina, Director of Cultural Heritage within the MTA. “This scheme is about unlocking that potential, creating spaces that locals and tourists alike can enjoy.”

The restoration scheme focuses on the heart of each village – the square, or ‘pjazza’ in Maltese. These spaces are being transformed into welcoming, functional areas that cater to both residents and visitors.

In Mġarr, the restoration included repairing and repainting the historic buildings that surround the main square. The fountain at the square’s centre was cleaned and refurbished, its water now sparkling in the sunlight. New seating areas and planters have been added, while the square’s lighting has been improved to create a safer, more inviting atmosphere in the evenings.

Similar work is underway in other Northern villages. In Xagħra, the restoration of the main square is set to include the creation of a new market area, while in Victoria, Gozo’s capital city, the scheme is focusing on the historic Citadel, transforming it into a cultural hub.

The restoration scheme is about more than just aesthetics. It’s also about creating spaces that serve a purpose. Each village core is being equipped with facilities that cater to the needs of its community, from public Wi-Fi and charging points to improved access for people with disabilities.

But perhaps the most significant aspect of the scheme is its focus on community involvement. Each village has been encouraged to have a say in the restoration process, with local councils and residents’ committees working alongside the MTA and Ministry for Gozo to ensure the final result reflects the community’s needs and aspirations.

“This is our village, our home,” says Maria Grech, a Mġarr resident. “We’re proud to see it looking so beautiful, and we’re excited about what the future holds.”

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