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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The Nationalist Party recently made a formal request for the Parliamentary Committees on Social Affairs and the Family to convene to discuss improving and strengthening the state’s operations to prevent homicides and other crimes against women.

The meeting was convened following the discovery of Nicolette Ghirxi, who was found stabbed to death in her Swatar apartment in the early hours of Monday morning.

She was murdered by her former partner, Edward Johnston, who was later shot dead by police officers in St. Julian’s after he revealed what turned out to be a replica gun.

This request has been accepted, and the joint Committees will now meet on the upcoming Wednesday, August 21st.

The Nationalist Party stated that they remain committed to working and contributing to ensure that every necessary step is taken to prevent homicides and other crimes against women.

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Officials from the Civil Protection Department (CPD), Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), the Police, and Mater Dei Hospital are currently responding to a fire in Għadira Bay, which appears to have originated from a boat. Footage sent to Malta Daily shows a bright red flame engulfing the vessel, with thick plumes of smoke rising from the scene just off the popular sandy beach.

At this time, it remains unclear whether anyone was on board when the fire broke out. There have been no confirmed reports of injuries, and details surrounding the incident are still emerging. Emergency services are on-site, working to contain the fire and prevent further escalation.

As this is a developing situation, more information will be provided as it becomes available. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area and allow emergency personnel to carry out their duties safely.

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