Eastern Malta’s Historic Revamp: Restoration Grants Finally Arrive

Revitalising the East: Restoration Grants Finally Reach Malta’s Eastern Region

Picture this: the sun setting over the ancient city walls of Mdina, casting a golden glow on the honey-stoned buildings. This iconic scene, a symbol of Malta’s rich history, is about to get a new lease of life. After a nationwide rollout, the government’s restoration grants scheme has finally reached Malta’s eastern region, promising to breathe new life into historical gems from Mdina to Marsaxlokk.

From Mdina to Marsaxlokk: A Tale of Two Cities

Mdina, the ‘Silent City’, is no stranger to restoration efforts. But with the new grants, more homes and historic sites are set to undergo transformations. Imagine the grand Palazzo Santa Sofia, a 17th-century gem on St. Paul’s Street, restored to its former glory. Or the humble yet historic houses in the narrow side streets, their wooden balconies and stone facades shining once again.

Meanwhile, down in Marsaxlokk, the fishing village is gearing up for a facelift. The colourful boats, or ‘luzzu’, moored in the harbour will have a new backdrop – the historic buildings along the waterfront, restored and repurposed. Think of the bustling fish market, its stone walls echoing with the banter of fishermen and locals, now cleaner, brighter, and more inviting.

Grants Unlocking Potential: Who’s Eligible?

The restoration grants, part of the government’s ‘Malta’s Heritage’ scheme, are designed to help owners of properties in Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) and Historic Urban Landscapes (HULs). That’s a lot of acronyms, but simply put, if your property is in a historically significant area, you might be eligible. The grants cover up to 70% of restoration costs, with a cap of €50,000 per property.

But it’s not just about the money. The scheme also offers technical assistance, helping owners of restoration work. “We’re not just giving out cash,” says Dr. Alexia Pace, the scheme’s coordinator. “We’re providing expertise and support, to ensure these buildings are restored properly, and for the long term.”

: A Revitalised East

With the final phase of the scheme now underway, the east of Malta is poised for a transformation. From Mdina’s grand palazzos to Marsaxlokk’s humble fishing cottages, history is set to be rewritten, one restored building at a time.

So, if you’re a proud owner of a historic property in Malta’s eastern region, now’s the time to act. The future of your property, and Malta’s heritage, is in your hands.