Restoration Of Sacro Monte In Rabat Piazza Starts This Month

The Malta Tourism Authority is initiating restoration works on the Sacro Monte, a historic site located at the heart of the piazza outside the Basilica and Collegiate Proto-Parish Church of Saint Paul in Rabat. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg, during a Sunday visit to the site.

He was joined by local figures, including Rabat Mayor Sandro Craus, Archpriest Rev. Joseph Mizzi, MTA CEO Carlo Micallef and Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul.

The Sacro Monte, known locally as iż-Żurżieqa, features a prominent staircase and terraces leading to the statue of St Paul. This landmark holds deep religious and historical significance, having been central to events such as the 1933 Jubilee and Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1990.

Restoration works, funded with €220,000, will focus on the staircase’s masonry, flagstones and sculptural details. This phase forms part of a larger regeneration project of the piazza, which began in 2020. The wider effort has already transformed the formerly neglected area into a pedestrian space with limestone paving, seating, lighting, trees and improved access.

Deputy Prime Minister Borg praised the project for revitalising a key cultural site and enhancing the visitor experience. Mayor Craus welcomed the return of natural beauty to the square. Rev. Mizzi noted the monument’s role in spiritual reflection, while Micallef and Ellul highlighted its cultural value and role in sustainable tourism development.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: DOI – Clifton Fenech