Restoration Grants Reach Marsaxlokk in Final Phase of National Scheme

Revitalising the East: Restoration Grants Arrive in Marsaxlokk

In the heart of Marsaxlokk, the historic church of St. Peter and St. Paul is undergoing a transformation. The peeling paint and worn-out stone are giving way to a fresh lick of colour and a renewed sense of pride. This isn’t just a local facelift; it’s the final phase of a national scheme that’s been breathing new life into Malta’s historic buildings.

From Valletta to the East: A Nationwide Restoration Effort

The ‘Restoration Grants’ scheme, launched in 2018, has been quietly transforming Malta’s architectural scene. It started in the capital, with grand palazzi and historic churches in Valletta and the Three Cities benefiting from the scheme. Now, the final phase has reached the eastern part of the island, with Marsaxlokk, Żabbar, and Żejtun among the beneficiaries.

The scheme, funded by the Malta Arts Council and the Malta Heritage Foundation, offers grants of up to €100,000 for restoration works. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving Malta’s rich history and cultural heritage for future generations.

Marsaxlokk: A Fishing Village with a Rich Heritage

Marsaxlokk, known for its vibrant fishing village and the colourful boats that dot its harbour, is a treasure trove of history. The church of St. Peter and St. Paul, built in the 17th century, is one of its most significant landmarks. The restoration works here are a testament to the scheme’s reach, stretching from the grand palaces of Valletta to the humble fishing villages of the east.

But Marsaxlokk isn’t just about its past. It’s also a bustling community with a thriving arts scene. The restoration scheme isn’t just about preserving history; it’s also about supporting local communities and boosting local economies. The restored church will not only be a proud symbol of Marsaxlokk’s past but also a vibrant centre of its present and future.

The final phase of the Restoration Grants scheme is a reminder that Malta’s heritage is a living, breathing thing. It’s not just about preserving the past; it’s about creating a future where history and modernity coexist. As the paint dries on the church of St. Peter and St. Paul, we can look forward to a future where Malta’s historic buildings continue to tell their stories, and where the past and the present are intertwined.