Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1539607
6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 19 SEPTEMBER 2025 CULTURE A unique celebration of music and history is now on display at the Gozo Philatelic Society's lat- est showcase, located on Level -1. The exhibition features a captivat- ing collection of stamps and cov- ers themed around opera, classical music, and world-renowned mu- sicians. Stamp enthusiasts and music lovers alike can explore rare and visually striking philatelic items that pay tribute to legendary com- posers, iconic operatic perfor- mances, and defining moments in musical history. The collection includes commemorative issues marking significant anniversaries, historic concerts, and other mile- stones from the world of classical music. Designed to appeal to a broad audience, the exhibit offers an engaging journey through the cul- tural and artistic narratives cap- tured on postage stamps. From intricate designs to historic postal memorabilia, the display high- lights the powerful connection between music and philately. The showcase is open to the public and promises an enriching experience at the crossroads of art, history, and sound. It will take place on 12 October from 9 to 5pm. Gozo Philatelic Society unveils nusical stamp showcase Meet the Artist at Il- Hagar Museum guided tour of Mary Portelli's MUZAjk AFTER the in- terest shown since last w e e k e n d ' s opening and in response to popular de- mand, artist Mary Portelli will be giving a guided tour of her exhibition MUŻAjk this Saturday, 20 September, at 11:00am. Dur- ing the tour, Portelli will ex- plain how the 45 m o s a i c works currently on temporary display at Il- Ħaġar were created, the techniques and materi- als she used, and the ide- as behind them. P a r t i c i - pation in the tour is free, but r e g i s t r a - tion is en- c o u r a g e d by send- ing an email to events@heartofgozo. org.mt, as places are limited. THE Blue Lagoon on Comino is one of Mal- ta's most iconic treasures, world-renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and unspoiled beauty. To safeguard this natural gem for future generations while enhancing the experience of those who vis- it, the Malta Tourism Authority, together with Team Blue Lagoon and internation- ally acclaimed architects Mizzi Studio, has unveiled the Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation – Balancing Nature and Experience proposal. This ambitious project combines ecological restoration with the sensitive repurposing of degraded areas, ensuring that the Blue Lagoon remains both a thriving ecosystem and a world-class visitor attraction. At the heart of the proposal is a vision to restore and protect nature while improving accessibility and comfort. Existing kiosks will be removed from the main shoreline, opening up space for a stunning 200-metre scenic walkway that will provide uninter- rupted views across the lagoon. More than 35,000 square metres of garigue landscapes will be rehabilitated and protected using traditional rubble walls and conservation methods, safeguarding Comino's delicate biodiversity. Vessel operations will be re- organised, moving boat docking away from the swimming zone, which itself will be enlarged by 5,600 square metres—giving visitors safer, more spacious access to the lagoon's turquoise waters. To enhance the visitor experience, exist- ing disturbed sites and degraded areas will be repurposed into low-lying, eco-sensitive structures, providing essential facilities such as information points, shaded seating areas, food and beverage outlets, sanitation ser- vices, and waste management. These new facilities will be covered with 840 square metres of green roofs, helping them blend seamlessly into the natural environment. At the same time, 880 square metres of un- safe concrete platforms will be removed, restoring the shoreline's natural character. Visitors will also enjoy a refreshed food and beverage offering, featuring locally-sourced produce, reusable cups, and biodegradable packaging, further aligning with the pro- ject's sustainability goals. Sustainability is central to this transforma- tion. Traditional and innovative materials, including natural limestone, reed (qasab), and locally-engineered composites, will be used throughout. Together, these measures will not only heal past ecological damage but also ensure long-term protection for Comino's unique marine habitats, birdlife, and terrestrial ecosystems. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Ian Borg, emphasised that the project is the result of months of collaboration with na- tional entities, environmental NGOs, busi- ness organisations, and other stakeholders, underlining the importance of collective responsibility in protecting the Blue La- goon. Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef highlighted that this project rep- resents a decisive step in positioning Malta as a destination where sustainability and excellence in tourism go hand in hand. Ar- chitect Jonathan Mizzi described the initia- tive as a holistic set of solutions that balance nature with experience, creating harmony between visitors and the environment. The proposal will now proceed through the planning and environmental permit- ting process, which includes formal public consultation. In the meantime, Team Blue Lagoon continues to improve day-to-day operations in the area. A new free booking system reduced overcrowding by 68% dur- ing peak hours this summer, while addi- tional resources were introduced for clean- ing, enforcement, and safety on land and at sea. Through these combined efforts, the Blue Lagoon will continue to evolve as a destination that respects its environment while offering visitors a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience. By restoring Comino's landscapes and waters while pro- viding modern, sustainable facilities, Malta is ensuring that the Blue Lagoon remains a natural jewel for generations to come. Team Blue Lagoon and Mizzi Studio launch proposals for ecological rehabilitation at the Blue Lagoon Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation – Balancing Nature and Experience