Għaqda Tan-Nar 23 T’April In Ħal Qormi Granted 50 Year Lease

The Għaqda tan-Nar 23 t’April in Ħal Qormi has been granted a property on a 50 year long term lease by the Lands Authority.

The building, which falls under the Authority’s responsibility, provides long term stability for the voluntary organisation while enabling further investment in the Maltese festa, particularly at a time when the tradition has been recognised as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The association is also marking its centenary this year.

The premises will also benefit students studying engineering at MCAST, offering space to design and develop innovative concepts related to ground fireworks, as well as to work on metal structures and machinery. No pyrotechnic material will be stored or used on site.

In addition, the building will serve as a space where experienced older members can contribute to non pyrotechnic aspects of the craft, such as manual preparation work. This will allow knowledge to be passed on to younger generations interested in Malta’s cultural traditions, helping to preserve and strengthen the art of pyrotechnics.

Owen Bonnici described the initiative as an important step in supporting Maltese and Gozitan cultural traditions, noting that festas play a key role in bringing communities together. He said the agreement would allow the association to plan and invest for the future.

Association president Jason Busuttil welcomed the agreement, stating that it offers security and opens new opportunities for growth, innovation, and the transfer of knowledge to future generations.

The agreement was signed by Lands Authority chief executive Robert Vella and notary Roderick Gatt.

#MaltaDaily