Floriana\u2019s St Publius Church fa\u00e7ade to be restored<\/p>\n
The government has announced a new investment in the restoration of the façade and lighting system of the Parish Church of St Publius, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve Malta’s cultural and architectural heritage.<\/p>\n
The project, revealed by Byron Camilleri, Minister for Interior, Security and Employment, and Owen Bonnici, Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, will involve both structural and conservation works on the church’s façade, alongside the installation of a modern lighting system designed to highlight its architectural features. Funding for the restoration will be provided by the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, supported by tourism funds.<\/p>\n
Minister Camilleri said the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to investing in the core of local communities by safeguarding spaces of religious, historical and social importance. He described the Floriana church as a symbol of Maltese identity, adding that the project will ensure the site remains accessible, safe and dignified for future generations.<\/p>\n
Minister Bonnici emphasised that the Government’s support extends beyond public heritage to include religious sites, which he said form an essential part of Malta’s cultural fabric. He noted that this project is one of several grants allocated to parishes and chapels across the islands, and is expected to attract interest beyond Floriana due to the site’s significance.<\/p>\n
Further details were provided by Michael Pace Ross, Administrative Secretary of the Archdiocese of Malta, who explained that the works will include cleaning and restoring the façade, the Neoclassical portico, the re-carving of the frontispiece in Maltese stone, and interventions on the bell towers. The project will conclude with the illumination of the church façade.<\/p>\n
Parish Archpriest Charles Cini welcomed the announcement, thanking both the Government and the Archdiocese for years of negotiations that led to the agreement. He said the timing is particularly significant as the works will be completed ahead of the feast of St Publius, and acknowledged that the project would not have been possible without government funding.<\/p>\n