Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri has inaugurated restoration works done on two old niches at the entrance to Cittadella, while also announcing an investment which will see the installation of benches in the Cathedral Square.

Camilleri stated that this is evidence of a government which truly works and invests in order to preserve the unique heritage of our country, particularly of Gozo.

“The niches, one of St. Anne and the other of Our Lady of Solitude, are among the oldest in Gozo. They needed restoration works to not only serve as protection from further deterioration, but also for their surroundings to look better,” he said.

Director of Cultural Heritage John Xuereb said that continuous consultation was done with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage during the restoration and was carried out by workers of the Restoration Unit and of the Citadel.

The minister also announced that benches will soon be placed near the fountain of the main square of the Citadel after receiving much feedback on the need for benches both by tourists and locals.

The benches will be manufactured uniquely to the Citadel square, Camilleri said, adding that they will give a richer look to the same square while following the common practice in European cities. The benches will be made of marble and wood, with a back made of iron with the coat of arms of the city of Victoria.