The restoration of the St Nicholas bastions, which separates Cospicua from Fgura, has been completed, a government statement said.

This stretch of wall lies between the San Nikola and San Ġwann bastions and forms part of the Cottonera fortifications designed by Antonio Maurizio Valperga during the era of the Order of St John.

Culture Minister Owen Bonnici and Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli announced the completion of these works, which cost €650,000.

Works on this bastion wall began in November 2023 and were completed earlier this year. In total, the project covered over 4,500 square metres of fortifications.

Bonnici said that through such initiatives, the country is continuing to strengthen the value of its national heritage, a heritage that shapes people's identity.

"This restoration is in line with our cultural strategy to enhance appreciation of our country's heritage. With this project we are giving greater value to this historic site, ensuring it can be enjoyed long-term by both the public and tourists," Bonnici said.

Zerafa Civelli said that this restoration is proof of the work being done to protect and preserve Malta's identity while also elevating the cultural value of localities.

She also praised the workers of the Restoration and Preservation Directorate for their high-quality work.

"The Local Councils of Fgura and Cospicua, together with the Cottonera Foundation and residents of these localities, are deeply grateful for these works, which form an important part of our historical and cultural heritage," Zerafa Civelli said.

The restoration works included cleaning, repointing of joints, replacement of deteriorated stone, restoration of the wall and parapet, as well as restoration of the superior slope, the statement said.

Works also involved the consolidation of fragile stone areas and other conservation interventions on the stone fabric of the wall.

Present for the occasion were also the Chairman of the Cottonera Foundation Joe Mizzi, and members of the Local Councils of Fgura and Cospicua.