Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1534065
6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 4 APRIL 2025 NEWS CULTURE IL-ĦAĠAR, Heart of Gozo Mu- seum, in collaboration with the Gozo University Group (GUG), is hosting an exciting public talk as part of this year's Gozo Week events. Titled Gozitan Corsairs: The Islanders with a Thirst for Adventure, the lecture will be delivered by maritime historian Liam Gauci on Saturday, 5 April, at 11:00. This event promises to transport attendees back to the 18th century, when the Medi- terranean was rife with daring privateers seeking fortune, glory, and survival on the high seas. Corsairs were more than just pirates, they were licensed pri- vateers who operated with the approval of local rulers, attacking enemy ships and trading vessels for profit. While Malta's corsairs have been well documented, the contributions of Gozo's own seafaring adventurers have often been overlooked. This talk will shine a light on the bold Gozitan corsairs who prowled the Medi- terranean, shaping the island's maritime identity. Expect to hear tales of swashbuckling escapades, strategic raids, and the lucrative world of corsairing, which played a vital role in the economy and defence of the Maltese islands. Liam Gauci is no stranger to this fascinating subject. As a well respected maritime historian, he spent 17 years as Curator of the Malta Maritime Museum, metic- ulously researching the history of Mediterranean seafaring. His lat- est book, Morte o Fortuna: Cor- sairs at Malta 1747-1798, delves deep into the lives of these sea- farers, exploring their risks and rewards. The lecture will draw heavi- ly from this research, offering attendees fresh insights into a world of high-stakes adven- tures on the open seas. Copies of Morte o Fortuna will be available for purchase on the day, making this a perfect opportunity for his- tory enthusiasts to take home a piece of Gauci's work. The venue for this captivating talk, Il-Ħaġar Museum in Victo- ria, Gozo, is the ideal setting for an event that brings the island's past to life. Situated in the heart of Gozo's capital, the museum is dedicated to preserving and cel- ebrating the island's rich and ex- tensive history. It regularly hosts exhibitions, lectures, and events that delve into Gozo's history, making it a must-visit for anyone eager to learn more about the is- land's past. For visitors planning to at- tend, Victoria is easily accessible, whether you're staying in Gozo or travelling over from Malta. Public transport links to the capital are reliable, and parking is available nearby for those driving. April is a fantastic time to explore Gozo, with mild temperatures and the island's landscapes in full spring bloom. Why not make a day of it? Af- ter the talk, take a stroll through Victoria's charming streets, visit the stunning Cittadella, or enjoy a coffee in one of the local cafés. Whether you're a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging way to spend your Saturday morning, Gozitan Corsairs: The Islanders with a Thirst for Adventure is an event not to be missed. Discover the forgotten stories of Gozo's seafaring past and gain a deeper appreciation for the island's role in Mediterranean history. For more details, visit heartof- gozo.org.mt or contact events@ heartofgozo.org.mt / +356 2155 7504. Il-Hagar hosts public talk on Gozitan corsairs, forgotten adventurers of the Mediterranean DIN l-Art Ħelwa (DLĦ) has re- futed claims that it has been given responsibility for the restoration of the Qbajjar Battery in Gozo. In a statement, the eNGO said that recent statements made by the Na- tionalist Party's Gozo spokesmanA- lex Borg on a local podcast may have been misleading in this regard. While DLĦ has been a staunch and persis- tent advocate for the restoration and guardianship of this historical site for many years, it was never entrusted by the Government to undertake this project. Reports in the press, meanwhile revealed that the Lands Authority authorised Heritage Malta to carry out the works on the Qbajjar battery in Gozo to "eliminate danger" in the structure. The Qbajjar Battery is a significant heritage asset, constructed by the Knights of St. John in the early 18th century. Unfortunately, the Battery has fallen into a state of disrepair, suffering severe damage from the el- ements. Local stakeholders, including the Żebbuġ Local Council, have repeat- edly raised concerns over the lack of action from the authorities, which have largely ignored numerous ap- peals for urgent intervention. Din l-Art Ħelwa has consistently expressed its willingness to collabo- rate with the Government to facili- tate the restoration of this historical site. "Our organisation boasts a proven track record in successfully executing similar restoration projects, demon- strating our readiness and capability to take action where needed," Execu- tive President of DLĦ Patrick Calleja said. "However, we have been met with persistent silence from the au- thorities, and our calls for collabora- tion have largely gone unanswered." DLĦ's statement said there are growing concerns that the Govern- ment's delayed action may stem from potential commercial interests regarding the site. This raises serious questions about the preservation of our cultural heritage. Any decisions made concerning the Qbajjar Battery should prioritize its historical val- ue and the public good rather than profit. Din l-Art Ħelwa said it remains committed to ensuring that the Qbajjar Battery is restored to its rightful place within Gozo's histori- cal narrative and opened to the pub- lic for enjoyment and education. Din l-Art Helwa on Qbajjar Battery restoration The Qbajjar gun battery