Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1518765
13 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 10 APRIL 2024 NEWS HERITAGE Malta has just com- menced restoration works on the Siege Bell War Memorial in Valletta, which commemorates the victims of the Second World War in Malta. The Siege Bell War Memo- rial occupies the lower part of St Christopher's Bastion, over- looking the Grand Harbour. The monument, designed by renowned British artist Mi- chael Sandle, was erected in memory of the victims of the Second World War in Malta, who totalled more than 7000. It was officially inaugurated on 29th May 1992, commem- orating the 50th anniversa- ry since the awarding of the George Cross to Malta for the display of bravery and valour during the bleak years of 1940- 1942. The structure sits over a low- er ground floor enclosed space with an open first floor super- structure that encloses the bel- fry, offering its visitors a splen- did view of the port and all the surrounding fortifications. The imposing bronze bell, the larg- est in Malta, tolls in honour of the fallen every day at noon. In front of the bell is a bronze sculpture that symbolizes the burial at sea of the unknown soldier. The bell holds on two massive concrete corbels. The external hardstone cladding is showing signs of serious deterioration of the concrete structure, aris- ing from its exposed location. Structural reinforcing and re- pair works were required to prevent any further damage. The project will also see the consolidation of the water- proofing layers, that includes the relaying of the hardstone floors o ver the reinstated con- crete floors. Works will include any other necessary structural reinforcing works to the cupo- la, ring-beams and substruc- ture, resulting in a general refurbishment of the monu- ment's internal and external spaces. The project, funded by na- tional funds totalling to around €700,000, is envisaged to near completion by the end of 2024. The monument will not be accessible to the public while works are underway. Heritage Malta starts restoration works on Siege Bell War Memorial in Valletta The external hardstone cladding is showing signs of serious deterioration of the concrete structure, arising from its exposed location. Structural reinforcing and repair works were required to prevent any further damage. CF Homes, a leading real estate development company, has do- nated a number of olive trees in large pots in an effort to comple- ment the embellishment of dif- ferent areas of the Mosta village core. The presentation took place at the Speranza Chapel, where CF Homes Director Clifton Cassar presented the olive trees to Mos- ta Mayor Chris Grech. The number of olive trees coming from the Mediterrane- an region, and chosen for their beauty and sustainability, where delivered and put on site by CF Homes employees. This initia- tive aims to enrich the aesthetic appeal of the community. Cassar said he was delighted to contribute to the enhancement of Mosta. "It is with great pleasure and pride that our company is able to contribute to the enhancement of this beautiful village," he said. "As a company deeply rooted in this community, we recognise the importance of enhancing our surroundings and contrib- uting to the well-being of our residents. These trees symbolize growth, vitality, and sustainabili- ty, values that we hold dear at CF Homes." The addition of these trees not only adds to the visual charm of Mosta but also aligns with CF Homes' commitment to sustain- able development and commu- nity welfare. Mayor Chris Grech extended his gratitude to CF Homes for their generous donation, empha- sising the positive impact it will have on the local environment and the community's well-being. CF Homes embellishes Mosta village core with several planted mature olive trees in pots A number of potted olive trees were installed around the Mosta village core to enrich the aesthetic appeal of the community