Eastern Malta’s Heritage Restoration Boom
Revitalising Heritage: Eastern Malta in Spotlight as Restoration Grants Reach Final Phase
In the heart of Żejtun, a town steeped in history and culture, scaffolding stands tall around the grand façade of the Parish Church. It’s a familiar sight these days, as Malta’s national restoration scheme reaches its final phase, bringing much-needed funds and attention to the eastern region.
From Valletta to Żejtun: A Nationwide Restoration Journey
Launched in 2018, the national restoration scheme has been a beacon of hope for Malta’s architectural heritage. From the grandeur of Valletta’s streets to the humble facades of Gozo’s villages, over €30 million has been invested in restoring and conserving our historic buildings. Now, as the scheme enters its final phase, it’s eastern Malta’s turn to shine.
Żejtun, with its rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, is one of the towns benefiting from this final push. The Parish Church, a Baroque masterpiece designed by Lorenzo Gafà, is undergoing extensive restoration. The works, funded by the scheme, aim to preserve the church’s architectural integrity and ensure it remains a beacon of Żejtun’s cultural identity.
Eastern Malta: A Treasure Trove of Heritage
Żejtun is not alone in its restoration journey. Across eastern Malta, towns like Żabbar, Żurrieq, and Marsaxlokk are seeing similar works. The ancient Roman villa in Żurrieq, for instance, is receiving a facelift, while Marsaxlokk’s historic fish market is being restored to its former glory. Each project tells a unique story, weaving together Malta’s complex historical tapestry.
But it’s not just about the big projects. The scheme also provides smaller grants for private property owners to restore their historic homes. In the narrow streets of Birkirkara, for example, a 17th-century mansion is being lovingly restored, its original stonework and wooden balconies slowly being revealed.
These restoration efforts are not just about preserving the past; they’re about creating a future. They’re about creating jobs, attracting tourists, and boosting local economies. They’re about giving Malta’s younger generations a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Malta’s restoration journey is far from over. But with the final phase of the national scheme underway, eastern Malta is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. And that’s something worth celebrating.
“This is our history, our culture,” says Joseph, a Żejtun resident who’s been watching the restoration works on the Parish Church. “It’s not just a building. It’s a part of who we are. And it’s great to see it being cared for.”
