Combining an evocative history, a unique harbour location, spectacular views and the very best in modern luxury, Senglea’s iconic Maċina Bastion is being restored and renovated, and will soon come back to life – as an exclusive Cugó Gran hotel.
For centuries, since it was built in 1554 during the reign of Grand Master Claude de la Sengle, Sheer Bastion has been one of Grand Harbour’s iconic landmarks, deriving its name ‘Maċina’ from the large sheer crane structure (macchina), used to hoist heavy masts and other cargo, which was eventually dismantled in 1864.
Now, once again, the Maċina is set to be a landmark of a different class, a luxury boutique hotel in a standout building that will be a showpiece within the Cottonera Regeneration Project.
Opening its doors this summer, the Cugó Gran – Maċina, Grand Harbour will be under the dedicated management of IBB Hotel Collection. IBB, which currently operates 10 hotels across Europe, forms part of the Von der Heyden Group, and has over 25 years of expertise in various leisure and real estate projects.
Against a backdrop of historical fortress walls blended with bespoke interior design and luxury features, the Cugó Gran will truly be a hotel with a difference, offering 21 suites ranging from 40 square metres to 130 square metres, all with unobstructed views of the Grand Harbour and the surrounding marina.
The suites have been designed with the discerning traveller in mind, having all amenities available in-room. Extravagant, free-standing baths and walk-in showers will make the stay all the more comfortable in a historic yet luxurious setting.
The design juxtaposes what is truly old and of historic value from the new, blending natural and traditional materials with modern, clean lines. With large communal spaces, high, vaulted ceilings and ample, natural light, a minimalistic design was enough to create a luxury environment.
The hotel will also offer guests a swimming pool, tucked discreetly on the rooftop of the annex building with a terrace overlooking the picturesque view of Vittoriosa and Cospicua.
The hotel will also offer a bistro, bar and cafeteria, as well as a boardroom for small conferences.
The rooftop terrace is being tastefully converted to accommodate events for up to 1,000 guests, overlooking the Three Cities, with views extending as far as Valletta, ideal for weddings, special events and corporate functions.
Asked about the potential of the property, IBB Hotel Collection CEO Vladimir Saal said: “Our Cugó Gran hotel in Malta enjoys an unrivalled historic location and has been designed to surpass the needs of the most discerning traveller looking for a memorable experience.
“This fits in well with our business vision as we grow by focusing properly on each individual market, because every market deserves a different kind of hotel.
“We recently announced an IBB-branded property in Valletta and this latest, high-end Cugó Gran operation will be a further step in our group’s presence in Malta, where we see a lot of potential. IBB will be releasing more information in the coming weeks.
“We strongly believe that the Maċina has the potential to regain its former glory and live again as an integral historical part of the Grand Harbour. No expense has been spared to achieve this level of luxury,’’ Mr Saal said.