Malta Submits UNESCO Application to List Fortifications as World Heritage Sites

Malta has formally submitted an application to UNESCO seeking the inclusion of several of the island’s historic fortifications on the World Heritage List. The proposed entry, titled “The Maltese Fortifications of the Knights of St John”, covers the fortifications surrounding Valletta’s harbours, the Cottonera Lines, the Santa Margherita Lines, Mdina, and the Cittadella in Gozo.

The submission was prepared by the Ministry for Culture, Lands and Local Government together with Malta’s Permanent Representation to UNESCO. Culture Minister Owen Bonnici explained that the government has been working for several years to identify sites of outstanding universal value that could qualify for this prestigious recognition.

Following the Upstream Process, which involves consultations and technical guidance from the UNESCO World Heritage Centre and ICOMOS International, Malta’s initial application has now been filed. The final version must be submitted by 1 February 2026, after which it will undergo detailed evaluation by international experts before being put to a vote by the 21-member World Heritage Committee.

Malta already boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Ġgantija Temples in Gozo, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, and Valletta itself. The Ġgantija inscription was extended in 1992 to include the wider set of Megalithic Temples of Malta.

Minister Bonnici emphasised that securing World Heritage status brings both opportunities and responsibilities. It not only enhances visibility and attracts cultural tourism but also strengthens the duty to preserve and protect these historic sites for future generations.

#MaltaDaily