Senglea played a vital role in the shaping of the country and, therefore, merited greater appreciation, Joseph Abela, president of the recently-formed Senglea Historical Society, said.

The maritime city dating back to the 16th century needed constant monitoring because too many sites of historical and architectural value had been lost over the years, he added.

The society aims to identify, promote the appreciation of and recommend measures and levels of protection of the cultural and natural heritage.

One of the society's priorities is to make a list of such sites as Il-Maċina or Sheer Bastion, the Dockyard Terrace, which served as a palace for the captains of the galleys during the Order of St John, houses, monuments and niches, among others.

Physical features by themselves do not constitute a city. Most of the local customs have faded away and the society aspires to revive them.

The society plans to publish writings about Senglea to make people aware of this city's rich history.

The provisional committee is composed of Joseph Abela (president), Anthony Caruana (vice president), Christopher Cousin (secretary), John Stanicic (cashier) and Marcelle Cassar (member).

The society is appealing to those who share the same interests to become a member. The society can be contacted also on Facebook.

sengleahistoricalsociety@ gmail.com