Major restoration works underway on St Helen’s curtain wall and gate in the Santa Margerita Lines in Cospicua

The Restoration and Preservation Department within the Ministry for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government is undertaking restoration works on the bastion wall between St John Almonier bastion and St Helen’s bastion with an investment of €1,000,000.

These restoration works are part of the programme of works carried out by the Restoration and Preservation Department, and shall be implemented by next year.

During an onsite visit, the Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, stated that, “It is truly remarkable to witness the major restoration efforts taking place on St Helen's curtain wall and gate in the Santa Margerita Lines in Cospicua. With an investment of one million euros, covering over 275 metres of fortification as well as the gate, this clearly shows our commitment to safeguard this invaluable part of our tangible heritage.”

Minister Bonnici further emphasized the government's prioritization of preserving our tangible heritage, also in the Cottonera area. “This project reflects dedication to ensuring the long-term protection and conservation of this historical site, allowing both present and future generations to cherish and explore its rich history”, Minister Bonnici concluded.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, praised the commitment of the workers who are implementing this project. “By restoring these historical places and monuments we are preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come, while increasing the wealth of our localities for residents, tourists and locals who visit these places”, concluded Parliamentary Secretary Zerafa Civelli.

The fortification walls were constructed in the eighteenth century. Perit Stephen Pulis, who is responsible for the works being done, explained that this project is being phased in sections over the 275 metres length of fortification walls, and will also include St Helen’s gate. Works consist of cleaning of flaking stonework, preservation of the original patina wherever possible, removal of cementitious renders, consolidation and pointing of joints. There are areas where the stonework has deteriorated, and will have to be replaced to stop further damage.

Sections of the upper parts of the fortifications were damaged during World War II and these will be reconstructed. Fissured rock sections in one of the rockcut counterscarp walls in the ditch are being stabilised with rock-bolting techniques.

There were also members of the Bormla Local Council present for the press conference.