The government boasts of the millions it spends on restoring our heritage. However, millions could be saved if we just decided to preserve it instead. Prevention is better than cure, and much cheaper I’m sure.

Our common heritage is sadly overlooked by the authorities and proof of this lies everywhere. Two such landmarks are a gate and a fountain that lie in Sta Venera. These landmarks are not far away from the Romeo Romano garden that was vandalised not long ago. Again, the authorities did nothing about it. These landmarks date back to the 17th century and were built by the Knights of St John.

A lot of people think that Sta Venera is a young town with little or no history. However, a small walk through the village with a pair of attentive eyes will reveal a lot.

What are we waiting for? Is Mepa powerless when it comes to preserving our heritage? Is government waiting for these landmarks to rot away, so that it can make the headlines regarding a restoration project a few years down the line?

Claude Calleja

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