BOV main supporter of Lascaris Heritage Park

Bank of Valletta has extended its role as the main partner of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna for another three years. This new agreement sees Bank of Valletta also supporting the Lascaris Heritage Park, the latest project by Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna that currently comprises the Lascaris War Rooms, which were restored to the status they enjoyed during the Second World War, and extends to various surrounding areas.

The Lascaris War Rooms were the hub from where the movements of enemy aircraft were tracked and plotted on a large map to facilitate air and ground defence coordination.

Tonio Depasquale, CEO of Bank of Valletta, and Mario Farrugia, CEO of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna signed the new agreement during a visit to the Lascaris War Rooms.

“Bank of Valletta can trace its history over the last 200 years and we are proud of our and Malta’s heritage,” said Mr Depasquale. “The Second World War, although a period of hardship for the Maltese, is a proud moment in our history and we are proud to be associated with a project that will see Malta’s defensive hub restored to its former glory.

“This new agreement enhances the relationship that exists between Bank of Valletta and Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna and further consolidates Bank of Valletta’s commitment to Malta’s heri-tage,” he concluded.

“The solid relationship between BOV and the FWA has seen the conservation of historical sites such as the Saluting Battery at the Upper Barrakka Gardens and Fort Rinella,” said Mr Farrugia. “Through this same collaboration, the bank and the Fondazzjoni organised several public events for the enjoyment of the public and to create more awareness on Malta’s rich and colourful history.”

The extension of the new agreement between Bank of Valletta and Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna will maintain the momentum on these activities while extending the Lascaris War Rooms. This most important historic property has been undergoing restoration by the Trust for the last 18 months and will be officially re-opened in September.

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna is a voluntary non-governmental organisation active in the fields of heritage preservation and management. It is entrusted with the conservation of several historic buildings and sites around Malta, all of which are open to the public.