Further to the letter by Lorenzo Zahra (July 5), as one who cherishes Vittoriosa’s architectural treasures bequeathed to us by previous generations, I sincerely thank Heritage Malta and all concerned for the restoration of the Malta Maritime Museum’s clock and clock tower.

Different to the older clock tower that was once at Piazza Vittoriosa, famous during the Great Siege of 1565, this clock and clock tower are synonymous with the former Royal Navy’s Bakery and the Admiralty’s Victualing Yard. For over a century, this clock had told accurate time to countless mariners and civilians, especially dockyard workers, including during the worst bombings of WWII, of which it still bears the scars.

It’s restoration along with that of the mechanism and bells, which produce such a pleasant chime when striking the quarters and the hours, are admired by many. Especially when viewed from the Senglea Marina across the creek, the clock tower stands majestic for all to enjoy.

However, once the sun sets, all is lost as much of the clock tower falls into the dark shadows along with other imposing buildings along the Vittoriosa Marina and the higher ones behind it. In fact, many are attributing its bell chimes to the church of St Lawrence, which actually doesn’t have any clocks. It would be appropriate and more attractive if the face of the restored clock and the inside of the belfry were to be illuminated by some warm lights.

I also commend Heritage Malta on the proposed restoration of the remainder of the Naval Bakery and the ongoing restoration project of Fort St Angelo. But, unfortunately, since the closure of the Casino Venezia, this part of the Vittoriosa Marina has also fallen into darkness.