The 5th cultural tour in this season’s series, organised by the Tourism and Culture Ministry on Sunday, will explore the picturesque old village of Lija and the locality of San Gwann.

The visit will start at the Belvedere monument, better known as It-Torri ta’ Hal-Lija. This historical monument was built in 1857 by the famous architect Bonavia for Marquis Depiro and his family. At the time, Marquis Depiro owned Villa Gourgion which stands on the right hand side of the new parish church.

The participants will then visit the old Parish Church of Tas-Salvatur, which houses interesting historic paintings and statues.

At San Gwann, previously called Msierah, the guided tour will visit The Mensija Sanctuary and its surroundings. Opposite the sanctuary lies Torri Lanzun, which dates back to the 15th century.

A historical re-enactment will take place during the tour and refreshments will be served.

These cultural tours are coordinated by the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority and Heritage Malta, and the organisers have expressed their special thanks to The Malta Union of Tourist Guides for their support.

Transport will leave Floriana, next to the Independence Monument, and Sliema, from opposite the Nazzarene Church, at 8.45am. Tickets cost Lm4.20 for adults and Lm3.30 for children and senior citizens.

Booking, together with payment, must be made by not later than noon tomorrow, Wednesday, at the offices of the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts, 230 Republic Street Valletta. For further information contact Noel D’Amato on tel 2123-2515.