Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici announced that restoration works have started on the medieval fortifications and the Greek Gate in Mdina. The project consists in the restoration of the visible part of the inner wall of the medieval fortifications of Mdina and the restoration of Greek Gate.
It is envisaged that the works will be completed by the end of November 2023. All the works, starting from site documentation followed by the submission of the permit application to the Planning Authority and the issuing and subsequent award of the tender contract, were carried out by the Restoration and Preservation Division.
During an onsite visit, Minister Bonnici stated that the government is committed in continuing to invest in strengthening our heritage to ensure that it is enjoyed by generations to come. He explained that these works do not only enhance our touristic product as a nation, but also safeguard important elements which contribute to the beauty of the ancient city of Mdina.
Minister Owen Bonnici also thanked the workers within the division for the work they are carrying out, particularly considering the nature of the site being restored and the high temperatures during this season.
The architect responsible for the restoration works, Maria Roberta Mallia, explained that the work includes the cleaning of the facades from biological growth, black crust and other superficial deposits; the removal of any crumbling renders or pointing; the pointing of open joints with a lime-based mortar; the repair or replacement of deteriorated stone, especially in the external area of the Gate, consolidation of de-laminated masonry and the restoration of the timber apertures.
