Open Day at Notre Dame Gate

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna is organising an open day at the 17th century Notre Dame Gate in Vittoriosa today between 10 a.m. and 4.30 p.m.

The gate is undergoing long term restoration by FWA and is not normally open to the public. Guided tours of the gate are to be held at 11 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. which will be followed with a guided walk along part of the adjacent Cottonera Lines.

Brief displays showing the uniforms, kit and weaponry of the Order of St. John's soldiery during the 18th century and as used by the garrison of this gate when it would have been garrisoned will also be available.

Entrance is free although donations will be welcomed to assist in raising more funds for the completion of this ambitious restoration project. This activity is being held as part of FWA's participation in the EU's DELTA project under the Euromed Heritage II Programme and is meant to increase public awareness about the various potentials of Cottonera as a region.

Notre Dame Gate was built by Grand Master Nicola Cotoner in 1675 as part of the extensive defensive girdle around the Three Cities. It was dedicated to Our Lady of Graces, patron saint of Zabbar, the town it faces.

However, many other names were adopted for it over time, such as Zabbar and Cotoner Gate by the British and Bieb is-Sultan by the Maltese, because of the massive bronze bust of Cotoner positioned high on the front of the gate surrounded by a triumphal war festoon and surmounting a large marble plaque that commemorates the foundation of the defensive lines.

This bust has recently been removed for restoration by the Malta Centre for Restoration following a sponsorship by the Vodafone Foundation.

Notre Dame Gate can be reached by taking any bus to Cottonera (stopping at Vittoriosa) or Zabbar. Ample parking space is available.