The weekend’s storm did not spare historical sites managed by Din l-Art Ħelwa, uprooting ancient trees and damaging historic monuments, with repair costs running into thousands of euros.

The iconic conifer at Ħal Millieri uprooted by the strong winds.The iconic conifer at Ħal Millieri uprooted by the strong winds.

The NGO is appealing for funds to cover urgent repairs, as volunteers help clear fallen debris to prepare the sites for the weekend activities, which will still be held despite the damage.

The sites hit by the storm include the Msida Bastion Garden of Rest where strong winds uprooted ancient trees, blocking pathways.

Read: Storm's trail of destruction could cost millions

Several monuments were damaged at the neo-classic Protestant cemetery at the Msida garden, which is the final resting place of notable people who died in Malta between 1806 and 1857.

Their repair will need expert and professional conservation. 

Rubble walls have also been damaged in the moat at Torri Mamo in Marsascala. 

Unfortunately, the historic chapel of the Annunciation at Ħal Millieri, limits of Żurrieq, will not be open on Sunday because fallen trees have damaged its pathways and rubble walls. Its iconic conifer tree at the entrance was uprooted by the wind. 

Luckily, the chapel itself and its frescos sustained no damage and work is currently being carried out to clear the passageway and reinstate its walls for the forthcoming annual Feast of the Annunciation in March. 

Read: Storm damages hall at Fort St Angelo, undersea water main

A DLĦ spokesperson said it was hoped that European emergency funding could be available for such damage, however, this would not come through for a while. In the meantime, the NGO is asking the public for funds to assist it with its repair work.

Volunteers are busy preparing for the NGO’s weekend activities. The Msida Bastion Garden of Rest will be open to the public for its monthly tour on Saturday and Sunday. Following its success last Saturday before disruption by the storm,  the Artisans Market will again be set up at Torri Mamo on Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4.30pm.

The church of Our Lady of Bir Miftuħ, in Gudja, will be open on Sunday between 9.30am and noon.

Anyone wishing to donate can send a remittance by cheque to Din l-Art Ħelwa, 133, Melita Street, Valletta, or via bank transfer at HSBC MT76MMEB44336000000033181181001, BOV MT51VALL22013000000040021787427 and APS MT02APSB77024000892010892010012.

Volunteers at work at the Msida Bastion Garden of Rest.Volunteers at work at the Msida Bastion Garden of Rest.

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