A press conference at Fort St. Angelo in Birgu yesterday marked the completion of a significant conservation and restoration project at the historic Chapel of Our Lady’s Nativity. The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), in collaboration with the Vittoriosa Historical and Cultural Society (VHCS), proudly revealed the revitalized chapel, now a renewed cultural and spiritual landmark in Malta.

The restoration project focused on the chapel’s gilded altar and six supporting pillars, and introduced new artwork to enrich its interior. A new titular painting of the Nativity of Mary was commissioned, alongside depictions of Saint Paul, Saint John the Baptist, and a group painting of St. Lawrence the Martyr, St. Barbara, and St. Apollonia. Local artist Manuel Farrugia was selected to create these new works, adding to the chapel’s Baroque heritage.

Originally built in 1274 and later embellished with Baroque elements in the 17th century, the chapel was once Birgu’s first parish church. VHCS has played a key role in preserving this historic site, and recent discoveries of its original gilding and color scheme led to the restoration effort.

Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness, Hon. Clayton Bartolo, praised the project for preserving Malta’s cultural heritage. MTA CEO Carlo Micallef highlighted the restoration’s contribution to enhancing Malta’s cultural appeal. With an investment of €35,128, the project also strengthens the chapel’s role as a stop along the Camino de Santiago pilgrim route, enriching visitors’ spiritual journeys.

This joint effort between the MTA and VHCS ensures that the Chapel of Our Lady’s Nativity remains a vital symbol of Malta’s cultural and spiritual legacy.

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