The Restoration Directorate within the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government are working on The Franciscan Church of Our Lady of Jesus Conservation Area of Valletta –
During a press conference addressed by Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici, it was explained that the restoration works, which are being implemented with an investment of €300,000, started in October 2022 and are expected to be completed by the end of January 2024.

“This restoration fulfils our cultural strategy in a way that our heritage is more accessible,” Dr Bonnici concluded.

“This Government is committed to continue safeguarding the Church and the internal artefacts, to improve not only the facilities but also the necessary restoration so that the Church continues to be a temple for Christians and can be enjoyed by the public and the tourists.”

The Architect responsible for this project, Jean Frendo, explained how cleaning the stone’s face is important to remove all accumulation of carbon, sulphurous compounds, and other contaminants but carried out in such a way as to retain the patina of time.

“After removing and cleaning cement and plaster coatings, disintegrated limestone masonry will be replaced with course heights matching the original. Stonework that is deteriorated to the extent that threatens stability, distorts the architectural appearance of the building or is dangerous to users or passers-by will be replaced,” Frendo concluded.

Any paint, cement rendering or plaster coatings are being removed with care from any area where they occur on the façade, ensuring no damage is done to the surfaces underneath. Cement rendering occurs mainly in the lower areas of the walls of the church and the bell tower.

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