Mistra Gateway Conservation Project: Joint Press Statement by the Museums Department and "Din l-Art Helwa"

The restoration of Mistra Gate has provided Government and Din l-Art Helwa with an opportunity to establish closer working relationships in heritage conservation. With their wealth of monuments and historical sites, the Maltese islands stand out as a unique example of cultural development.

Discussions between the Museums Department and Din l-Art Helwa have served to clarify a number of issues surrounding the current restoration works on Mistra Gateway and similar initiatives. Being satisfied with the manner in which these works are being conducted, the Museums Department has decided to remove the Stop Works Order which had been issued on 29 January 1998.

The recent talks have established that the dismantling of the gateway was unavoidable due to the severe structural instability of the monument. Throughout this conservation project, the use of concrete was limited to the gateway's foundation and is entirely distinct from the rest of the structure. This measure was taken in order to ensure the structural stability of the gate. It has also been ascertained that other materials used in this conservation project are compatible with the monument's original fabric.

A misunderstanding surrounding the wooden gate has also been clarified. The gate was apparently made during an earlier restoration project that had been carried out in 1937. Since that time, the door had deteriorated as a result of woodworm and running water reducing it to an extreme state. The door will now be replaced.

Original stonework and wooden elements that could not be re-integrated into the restored gate are being safely stored. These elements will be handed over to the Museums Department.

The positive outcome of these talks has underlined several potential avenues for a more constructive dialogue in the field of cultural heritage. Partnerships and data-sharing networks will ensure that such a dialogue will leave a positive mark on our collective efforts to safeguard our patrimony. The recent heritage management workshops held by the Museums Department and the Council of Europe, as well as the genuine efforts of societies such as Din l-Art Helwa auger well for the future pooling of resources in safeguarding Malta's unique and irreplaceable cultural assets.