Work has officially begun on the restoration of the historic Santa Marija tal-Ħlas Chapel, one of Żejtun’s most treasured religious landmarks. With its medieval origins, this chapel once served as the principal church for the village of Ħal Bisbut, also known as Ir-Raħal ta’ Fuq.

The project forms part of a broader restoration scheme available to local councils, designed to conserve and protect sites of historical significance. The restoration works, overseen by the Directorate for Restoration and Preservation, were approved following an application submitted to the Planning Authority.

Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, emphasised that this initiative will ensure the chapel is safeguarded for generations to come. He highlighted the importance of preserving its architectural features and religious symbolism. “This project reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to protecting Malta’s cultural heritage and ensuring that historical landmarks remain accessible and valued by the public,” he stated.

Architect Gregorio Giubilaro, who is leading the restoration, detailed the main interventions, which include repairing the façade, removing cement plaster that has been causing damage to the original stone, and conserving the wooden apertures, among other enhancements.

The present chapel stands on the foundations of an earlier structure dating back to 1575. The first stone of the existing chapel was laid on 25th November 1692 by Bishop Davide Cocco Palmieri. Additional renovations were carried out in 1850 by Rev. Giovanni Tabone, and in 1851, the sacred relics of the martyr Saint Amabile were placed beneath the main altar. Situated within an Urban Conservation Area (UCA), the chapel is also registered in Malta’s Cultural Heritage Inventory.

Present at the site visit were Żejtun Archpriest Anton Galea-Scannura, Żejtun Mayor Joan Abela, and representatives from the Żejtun Local Council.

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