Half a million euro in European funds for the restoration of churches

The Maltese ecclesiastical patrimony forms an essential part of our country’s historical and religious heritage. With this restoration, the heritage left by our forefathers will be preserved for future generations.

This was stated by Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi during a press conference in Ħal Kirkop, one of the localities which benefitted from these funds for the restoration of St Leonard’s Church. He said that this parish secured about €100,000, co-financed with European funds, for the restoration of the church’s facade. This restoration will ensure to minimise the effects time left on the church, given the deterioration of its facade.

Together with this church, additional European funds were allocated for restoration works on 4 other churches including Immaculate Conception of Our Lady Parish Church in Bormla, the Chapel of St Theresa of Avila in Valletta, St Mary in Żejtun and St Catherine Parish Church in Żurrieq. With these works, the aforementioned churches will be restored to their original state so that they are enjoyed by the people living in the locality together with the tourists who visit them. Thus, the Maltese touristic product will be strengthened as these expose our country’s rich cultural heritage.

The parish priest of Ħal Kirkop, Martin Cardona, said that the church serves as a home for many in Ħal Kirkop and it is well-kept by the people, thus this project is of great importance as it will ensure its preservation. He explained that discussions started months ago, since the process involved many people and various entities, however, its result will be enjoyed by many more people.