A set of fortifications dating back between 200 and 400 years, which lie close to the D'Homedes Bastions in Mdina and were unearthed recently during excavations, are being carefully restored under the watchful eye of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage.

Rural Affairs and Resources Minister George Pullicino yesterday visited the excavation site and explained that the medieval fortifications date back to between the 16th and 18th century.

He explained that the fortifications are thought to be one of the earliest examples of defence against artillery. The wall was uncovered during excavation work carried out between March and June as part of a pilot project which focuses on reinforcing the bastions.

Mr Pullicino said that the bastions were slowly sinking because they were mainly built on clay. The e500,000 pilot project is partially funded by European Economic Area (EEA) funds and aims to reinforce the bastions.