PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTRY FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TOURISM Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg inaugurates Howard House

Restored 160-year-old townhouse and former post office in Rabat reimagined as a luxury accommodation establishment

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg inaugurated Howard House, a distinguished 160-year-old heritage residence in Rabat that has been meticulously restored and reimagined as a boutique-style luxury bed and breakfast.

During a visit to this newly-opened establishment, on Tuesday evening, the Deputy Prime Minister met with some of its first guests, as he commended the project, blending historical preservation with contemporary luxury accommodation. “Howard House is an example of how private investment can feasibly align with national priorities – preserving our architectural heritage while enriching our tourism offering. This project safeguards a piece of Rabat's identity, while elevating Malta's appeal to the discerning traveller. We are committed to supporting such endeavours that celebrate our past while building a sustainable, high-quality future for Maltese tourism," he said.

Howard House, named after Malta's first Prime Minister Joseph Howard, includes eight adult-only guest rooms equipped with high-end amenities, as well as a rooftop entertainment and relaxation area, a breakfast room and other catering facilities. The interior showcases a private collection of original artworks by Maltese and international contemporary artists.

The townhouse once also served as Rabat's central post office. The original family lived on the upper floor while postal services operated below. In recent years, the building had fallen into disrepair, its structure severely compromised. The five-year restoration and transformation project followed strict restoration guidelines, under the supervision of the planning and heritage authorities, to ensure the property's cultural and structural integrity remained intact.

“This is not just about accommodation," said the property's owner Mariella Scerri. “Howard House represents a commitment to preserving Malta's architectural identity – a labour of love to give back to the island I deeply care for."