Extensive restoration works have begun on the St. Nicholas’ Gate, also known as the Gunpowder Gate, which forms an integral part of the Cottonera Lines, one of the most historically significant fortification systems in Malta.
The works, which are being carried out with local funds, are expected to be completed this year. The estimated cost of these restoration works is around €700,000.
The Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli, visited this restoration project.
Minister Owen Bonnici said that this restoration is clear evidence of the Government’s ongoing commitment to protecting and enhancing our historical and cultural heritage. “This restoration is clear evidence of the Government’s ongoing commitment to protecting and enhancing our historical and cultural heritage. Through substantial investment, we are not only saving structures of historical value, but we are ensuring that they remain a living part of the Maltese identity for generations to come,” stated Dr Bonnici.
Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli pointed out that this investment shows how local councils are being supported by the Government and are operating in synergy with national entities. “Today we are seeing how the Department of Restoration and Preservation is continuing with the second phase of this restoration. This is an investment in the tangible heritage of our localities that will continue to be enjoyed by future generations.”
St. Nicholas’s Bastion was built towards the end of the seventeenth century during the reign of the Order of the Knights of St. John, as a defensive measure in response to the threat of an Ottoman attack after the fall of Candia. These fortifications were intended to protect the Grand Harbour and the surrounding settlements. This segment is located between the St. John’s Bastion and the St. Nicholas’ Bastion. While the St. John’s Bastion has been restored, restoration works on the St. Nicholas’ Bastion have recently begun, and are now being extended to this historic fort as well.
The works envisaged consist of the restoration of the rear facades of the St Nicholas’ Castle, including the fortified wall at the lower level, as well as the facades of the vaults and rooms located in the upper part of the castle. The interventions include the cleaning of the stonework, which is currently affected by extensive biological fouling and blackening on all facades. Significant deterioration of the stonework has also been identified, with certain areas in critical condition and requiring replacement of the material. Much of this deterioration is caused by both natural elements and the effects of water and salt.
The works also include the restoration and replacement of wooden apertures, as well as improvements to water drainage systems from the platform levels, with the aim of preventing further deterioration caused by water percolation.
Also present for this visit was the Chairman of the Cottonera Foundation, Joe Mizzi.
