The Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici and the Minister for the Interior, Security and Work Byron Camilleri announced that the dome and roof of the Parish Church of Marija Assunta in Għaxaq will be restored through financial aid that will be given to this parish.
The restoration work will be possible through financial aid amounting to €120,000 given by the Community Malta agency to be used in a range of essential works for the conservation of the dome, which include restoration of the wooden openings, the waterproofing of the dome itself and the lighthouse, as well as the conservation of the stones themselves. The base of the existing roof covering will also be undergoing repair work.
“The Parish Church dedicated to Saint Mary is considered a cultural and historical icon in the community and is renowned for its wonderful artistry, including elaborate stone carving, frescoes and the famous titular statue of Mary Assunta, which in itself is an artistic masterpiece,” said Minister Owen Bonnici.
Minister Byron Camilleri said that the government remains committed to using the tools it has to invest in communities and cultural heritage, because it is indeed close to the people. “The Malta Community Agency is working hand in hand with the community, because with this work cultural heritage will not only be protected but it will be used religiously every day by the community,” concluded the minister. The financing for the restoration of the church in Għaxaq was made possible thanks to a collaboration between the Maltese Council for the Arts and Community Malta.
Also present was Michael Pace Ross, the Administrative Secretary of the Archdiocese of Malta and the Local Council of Għaxaq.
