Historic Guthrie Bridge Restored At Fort Rinella

Six years after the Eden Leisure Group, through the Eden Leisure Foundation, pledged €50,000 for its restoration, the historic Guthrie Bridge has been fully rebuilt and inaugurated at Fort Rinella.

Originally designed in 1869 by Charles T. Guthrie and constructed by the British forces, the Guthrie Bridge stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century military engineering. Its ingenious retractable mechanism allowed the fort to isolate itself from the mainland, providing maximum security during wartime. The bridge remained in use until the 1920s, after which it fell into disrepair and was eventually dismantled.

Under the stewardship of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna, the restoration initially projected to take one year evolved into a six-year project of meticulous research, craftsmanship, and engineering precision. Every iron, wood, and masonry component was reconstructed using the same techniques and materials as the original 19th-century design, guided by historical records and surviving British military documentation.

The bridge, which comprises two main sections a rolling platform and a counterweight mechanism is now the only functioning example of its kind in the world. Its revival adds immense value to Malta’s cultural and technical heritage and enhances the touristic appeal of Fort Rinella, one of the island’s most visited historical sites.

“This restoration perfectly reflects our Foundation’s mission. Through the Eden Leisure Foundation, we aim to ensure that the Eden Leisure Group’s success continues to create lasting value for Malta’s cultural and natural heritage. We believe the past deserves not just to be remembered, but to be restored and experienced, as visitors can now experience this bridge in motion,” said Kate de Cesare, Chairperson of the Eden Leisure Foundation.

Mario Farrugia, Chairman of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna, added: “For over 30 years, restoring the Guthrie Bridge was a dream. Thanks to the support of the Eden Leisure Foundation, that dream is now a reality. This is more than a restoration it’s the rebirth of a world-first piece of engineering.”

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