Restoration Work Begins On St Bartholomew’s Church in Żurrieq
Maintenance and restoration work has begun on St Bartholomew’s Church, located in Żurrieq in the area known as Xarolla. The works, being carried out by the Department of Restoration and Preservation, are expected to be completed by February 2025.
During a site visit, the Minister for National Heritage, Owen Bonnici, stated that this restoration work is crucial to protect our country’s historical heritage and preserve it for future generations.
“The Church of St Bartholomew is an integral part of the history and identity of Żurrieq, and it is important that we give it the necessary attention and care so that it continues to serve as a place of devotion and historical remembrance. We are committed to continuing our efforts so that these churches continue to be appreciated and recognised for their cultural value,” Bonnici said.
Originally, a smaller chapel dedicated to the same saint was located on this site, built in 1482. In 1775, the process to build a larger church began and was completed in 1784.
The works related to this restoration project will include, among other things, repairing and repainting all the church’s apertures, restoring the main door, carrying out works on the church’s roof and dome, re-plastering the church’s facade with a lime-based mixture chosen to match the original stone colour and replacing deteriorated stones where necessary.