IBB Hotel Collection, an international leader in bespoke developments, celebrated the opening of the legendary Macina as Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour, signalling the arrival of a new home for visitors seeking a new-world charm in one of Malta's historical walled cities, Senglea. Cugó Gran Macina is also the first member of Design Hotels in Malta.
The star-studded opening ceremony was held on the property's rooftop event venue, The Sheer Bastion, which has breathtaking views along with a sweep of history dating back to the 16th century. IBB Hotel Collection Chairman Sven von der Heyden welcomed Prime Minister Dr Joseph Muscat and a host of dignitaries from Malta and abroad.
Sven von der Heyden said: "We are honoured to be part of the Macina story, which historically contributed to Senglea's title 'Città Invicta' (Unconquered City). After 40,000 man hours and a multimillion euro investment on restoration and rehabilitation, it is a great feeling to see such an iconic 16th century building come to life again for people to experience and be another step closer to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site."
Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour, located in Senglea's iconic Macina Bastion, enjoyed a soft opening in December 2017 and now, after an 18-month renovation, all the 21 fully-appointed suites are open to guests. The IBB Hotel Collection operates hotels under lease, management and franchise contracts with three different own-brands: Cugó Gran, IBB Hotel and IBB Blue Hotel.
Vladimir Saal, CEO of IBB Hotel Collection, said: "IBB opened four hotels during the last 12 months, but nothing can be compared to the passion and the attention to detail that was necessary for the opening of this new gem of our hotel collection. We are very proud of the transformation process of this important development project at Grand Harbour. Now we can fully concentrate on the opening of our new IBB Hotel Valletta Merkanti adjacent to the Suq tal-Belt."
Built in 1554, during the reign of Grand Master Claude de la Sengle, Macina has been one of the Grand Harbour's most renowned landmarks, deriving its name 'Macina' (originally 'macchina') from the large sheer crane structure used to hoist masts and other heavy cargo, which was eventually dismantled during the British period in 1864. Today, the Cugó Gran Macina is aiming high by aspiring to be a landmark of a different class: a luxury boutique accommodation that will be a showpiece on the historic Cottonera seafront.
More than 500 invited guests peered over The Sheer Bastion which features unique panoramic views of Valletta and the Three Cities. The venue is part of the Hammett's Collection of the eponymous Chris Hammett, a 24-time award winning restaurateur. It can host up to 1,000 guests standing or 300 seated in a spectacular setting and is likely to become Malta's foremost destination for corporate meetings, weddings, and other celebrations.
Guests also experienced the history and transformation of the building via short films. A celebratory plaque was unveiled by the Prime Minister in the presence of the chairman, CEO and other senior IBB officials.