Extensive restoration works have been completed at the Santa Liena Bastion and ditch within the Santa Margherita Fortifications, safeguarding a key part of Malta's historic heritage.

The project, carried out by the Restoration and Preservation Department, involved an investment of nearly €1.7 million.

Culture Minister Owen Bonnici said the project demonstrates the government's commitment to protecting and strengthening Malta's cultural heritage, ensuring historic structures remain part of national identity.

Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli noted that the long-awaited restoration was particularly welcomed by residents of the Cottonera area.

The works covered around 460 metres of fortifications and 340 metres of ditch walls, including stone cleaning, consolidation, rebuilding of damaged sections and preservation of original materials.

Archaeological discoveries, including countermines and historic access ramps, provided further insight into the site's military engineering.