Costing just over €3 million, the historic square of Vittoriosa has been regenerated, converting its formerly traffic-centred look for a more pedestrianised one.

The square has been given a “completely new look” through the added modern infrastructure, full protection of the rich cultural heritage in this area including the old Clock Tower footprint, and improved accessibility.

The completion of this square’s regeneration was announced in an official re-opening by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Ian Borg, as well as by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett.

This project was completed through a collaboration between Infrastructure Malta (IM) and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA). The two governmental entities collectively aimed to empower the city’s historic element through the elements and materials used in this regeneration project.

Hence, a visible change can be observed in the face of the square itself. Infrastructural works were also carried out on services passing underground.

Most of the square has been converted into a pedestrian area; previously, the area was mostly occupied by tarmac allowing cars to pass through – this has been significantly reduced.

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg thanked Infrastructure Malta, the MTA, the Birgu Local Council, and other involved entities for their work on this project. He also thanked residents and people who visit the locality, saying that “you played a part in this project, and now, this square is in your hands.”

The Tourism Minister said that projects like this boost tourists’ experiences in our country. Minister Borg noted that this square encompasses the city’s unique characteristics, such as its rich history, traditions, festivals, heritage, club life, and tea shops, and praised how its regeneration safeguarded these elements.

He added that such investments in “authentic attractions” which promote tourists’ experiences in the Maltese islands are central towards Malta’s Vision 2050, arguing that doing so will entice more quality tourists to come to the country, which in turn should lead to more money spent to witness Maltese and Gozitan experiences.

Minister Bonett described that Birgu’s revamped square “serves as a model for how modern infrastructure and historical preservation can go hand-in-hand to create a vibrant, functional, and sustainable space for future generations.”

The Infrastructure Minister said that this project “represents a significant investment in the future of Vittoriosa city” and that aside from regenerating it while preserving its historical side, a communal space has been created to allow people to meet in the locality’s centre.

“This is our vision in the field of infrastructure,” Minister Bonett said.

He also stated that through this project, and others like it, the government is “reconfirming” its commitment to creating more open spaces for people while prioritising alternative modes of transport like walking and cycling.

Vittoriosa Mayor John Boxall thanked the central government for collaborating with his local council, alongside several other entities, “so that Birgu today has a square worthy of this city full of history that everyone who visits it can enjoy.”

Due to the location’s archaeological sensitivity, all excavation and restoration works were carried out under the strict supervision of the Superintendence for Cultural Heritage.

During these works, several abandoned reservoirs were discovered, as were two cisterns on either side of the main reservoir beneath the square. These have been cleaned and are now being used as part of the new rainwater network system, which will store water in them for use when required.

In addition, original paving materials discovered under the Collachio area were preserved and incorporated into the new final design, along with elements found in another area which were similarly integrated.

Works on this project also included the replacement of drinking water pipes, the installation of a new network for the rainwater system, the removal of electricity lines and services from façades, new modern lighting that respects the area’s environment, the installation of bicycle stands, amongst other things.

Urban design specialist firm Studjurban design the project, having been entrusted with reinterpreting the 2, 100m² square.

“Urban planning and the rehabilitation of public spaces — especially in the very heart of a community — is never straightforward,” said Dr Antoine Zammit from Studjurban.

“It requires a sensitive approach that balances the spirit of the locality with its collective memory and, often, the nostalgia of its people.”

This sensitivity was particularly crucial in Victory Square, where residents still feel a deep connection to the clock tower that once stood proudly at its centre.

Dr Zammit explained that, beyond the emotional and historical dimensions, the square also presented practical challenges. It previously suffered from a chaotic and unsafe traffic flow, lacked a proper pedestrian environment and pedestrian crossings, and featured disorganised parking and fragmented outdoor seating areas for catering establishments. The entirely asphalted space was also characterised by a sharp gradient, making it hard for pedestrians, especially individuals with mobility issues, to navigate the urban space.

“Thankfully, our ongoing work on the Slow Streets project — where we address safety, mobility, and the potential for revitalising urban life — equipped us well to respond to the unique demands of Birgu’s main square,” he added.

“By visually enhancing the perimeter of the original clock tower, we hope to keep its memory alive and preserve the spatial identity of this historic square,” Zammit said. 

Also present for this re-opening were the respective chief executives of Infrastructure Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority: Steve Ellul and Carlo Micallef.