The first half of 2024 has marked a significant milestone in Malta’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage.
Recent statistics reveal a remarkable increase in the number of paying visitors to heritage sites administered by Heritage Malta, underscoring the nation’s resilience and the growing international recognition of its unique patrimonial treasures.
A total of 816,983 paying visitors explored one of Malta’s heritage sites in the first six months of 2024. This impressive figure not only surpasses last year’s numbers but also exceeds the record set in 2019, a benchmark year for cultural tourism before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2024 figures represent a notable 5% increase over 2019, with 780,351 visitors, demonstrating a strong recovery and growth in Malta’s cultural sector.
The surge in visitor numbers is not just a numerical achievement; it symbolizes the resilience of Malta’s cultural sector and its ability to thrive in the face of challenges.
One of the standout successes of this period is Fort St. Elmo, which saw an astonishing 48.55% increase in visitors compared to 2019, with 75,586 people exploring this historic military site.
The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu also reported a significant 21.68% rise in visitors, reflecting the ongoing appeal of Malta’s unique role in the history of the Inquisition and the positive impact of recent restoration efforts.
This growth is a testament to the tireless efforts of Heritage Malta, whose initiatives have successfully attracted more visitors to the island’s historical and cultural landmarks.
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