Malta’s Cultural Heritage Takes Centre Stage As Vision 2050 Consultations Continue
Malta’s cultural heritage isn’t just about the past — it’s shaping the future too.
At the Malta Maritime Museum, a national conference was held to explore the present and future of the country’s cultural heritage as part of the Vision Malta 2050 public consultation process.
“In 2024 alone, over 1.6 million visitors experienced the sites managed by Heritage Malta. That figure speaks volumes about the strong and growing interest in our country’s unique cultural identity,” Culture Minister Owen Bonnici said.
In fact, a total of 1,642,328 paying visitors were registered at Heritage Malta sites, marking an increase of more than 290,000 compared to 2023.
These numbers do not include visits to other heritage locations not under Heritage Malta’s management.
Minister Bonnici said that ongoing investment in conservation, restoration and security is ensuring that Malta’s heritage remains alive, well-preserved, and accessible to everyone. “Our historical legacy is at the heart of who we are,” he said.
He also spoke about the importance of protecting the Maltese language and praised a new funding scheme recently launched by the Arts Council Malta, which supports the broadcasting of Maltese music on private radio stations. “It’s all about promoting local music, with a focus on Maltese-language tracks created by Maltese artists.”
He said Vision Malta 2050 places the preservation of cultural heritage at its core, recognising the importance of respecting and protecting Malta’s unique identity and historical legacy.
“This is a vision for a secure, resilient nation — one that is inspired by its past and driven by progress. It aims to promote a better quality of life for all,” Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Prime Minister, Ronald Mizzi, explained.
Mizzi said the ongoing consultation is moving ahead well, and that public input is crucial, especially when it comes to cultural heritage. “Whether it’s festas, religious buildings, Carnival, Maltese music and food, historic sites or our national language — these are all things we participate in and shape together as a community.”
The highlight of the evening was a public dialogue moderated by Jackie Mercieca, featuring a panel made up of architect Veronica Micallef (representing Heritage Malta), Din l-Art Ħelwa president Patrick Calleja, Professor Michael Spagnol, and astrophysicist Kris Zarb Adami.
Topics discussed included the Maltese language, heritage preservation, accessibility, and the role of communities in protecting and promoting cultural identity.
The Vision Malta 2050 consultation is open until 9th September at: www.envision2050.gov.mt.