Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici inaugurated the restoration works of the Chapel of Saint Philip and Saint James in San Gwann on Monday.

The project was completed within three months, following the proposal by the San Gwann Local Council. Robert Mallia was the architect in charge of the works and the restoration was handled by workers of the Restoration and Preservation Department.

The Chapel of Saint Philip and Saint James was built in the early 1730s. In a document dating back to 1732, Fr. Gaspare Giuseppe Vassallo declared that a chapel should be built on a portion of land known as Ta’ Wied Ghomor. The chapel was transferred to the Parish of St. John around the middle of the 20th century when the Parish of the Immaculate Conception was established.

Minister Bonnici said during a visit that the aim of the restoration is to enhance the area’s historical heritage. He said: “Historical places located in the respective towns and cities are a source of pride for the communities, and this restoration continues to safeguard those important aspects of our heritage.”

This forms part of the thirteen projects from the Local Councils 2022 scheme. San Gwann Mayor Trevor Fenech was also present.