€1 Million Investment In Major Restoration Of St Helen’s Curtain Wall And Gate
Major restoration works are currently underway on the curtain wall and gate of St Helen’s in the Santa Margerita Lines, located in Cospicua.
An investment of €1 million has been allocated for this project, which is being carried out by the Restoration and Preservation Department.
These restoration efforts form part of a broader program implemented by this department, with completion expected by next year.
During a recent visit to the site, Minister for National Heritage Owen Bonnici, expressed his admiration for the significant restoration endeavours taking place.
The investment of one million euros will cover the restoration of over 275 metres of fortification, as well as the gate, highlighting the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding this invaluable aspect of our cultural heritage.
Minister Bonnici reiterated the government’s dedication to the preservation of our tangible heritage, particularly in the Cottonera area.
“This project reflects a 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,” he said.
Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli commended the dedication of the workers involved in the project. She emphasised that by restoring these historical sites and monuments, we are preserving our cultural heritage for future generations, while simultaneously enhancing the appeal of our localities for residents, tourists, and visitors.
The fortification walls, originally constructed in the eighteenth century, will be restored in sections along the 275-metre length, including St Helen’s gate.
The restoration works encompass cleaning flaking stonework, preserving the original patina whenever possible, removing cementitious renders, consolidating and pointing joints, and replacing deteriorated stonework to prevent further damage.
Additionally, sections of the upper parts of the fortifications, damaged during World War II, will be reconstructed. Rock-bolting techniques will be employed to stabilise fissured rock sections in one of the rock-cut counterscarp walls in the ditch.
During the press conference, representatives from the Bormla Local Council were also in attendance, highlighting the collaborative efforts between local authorities and the government in preserving our cultural heritage.
Have you ever visited Santa Margerita Lines?