ONE OF MALTA'S LAST REMAINING 'FIRILLI' RESTORED AFTER TWO-YEAR PROJECT

One of Malta's last surviving traditional firilli has been brought back to life following more than two years of restoration work, preserving a unique piece of the island's maritime heritage for future generations.

The century-old boat, named Lion, has been restored through a collaborative effort between Marsaxlokk Heritage, Heritage Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA). Originally launched as a community initiative in 2021 by Marsaxlokk Heritage, the project later evolved into a national effort aimed at safeguarding one of Malta's rarest traditional vessels.

Restoration works were carried out at the Kalkara Boatyard using traditional techniques and materials, with experts also reconstructing the boat's historic tarkija rig, or sprit sail, reviving a feature that had almost disappeared from Maltese waters.

During the winter months, Lion will be displayed along the Marsaxlokk waterfront, where it will serve educational, tourism and research purposes. The project also included public workshops designed to preserve traditional boatbuilding skills and encourage the return of these historic vessels to Maltese harbours.

Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela described the restoration as an example of how tourism can help protect Malta's identity and cultural heritage, while Arts and Culture Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said the project ensures future generations can appreciate the craftsmanship and traditions that shaped the Maltese Islands.

The initiative forms part of wider efforts to preserve Malta's rich maritime legacy while promoting sustainable cultural tourism.

#MaltaDaily