One Of Malta’s Last Firilli Restored To Its Original Glory

Stqarrija bil-Malti Agħfas Hawn / Press Release in Maltese Click Here Press Release | 17th July 2026 A collaboration of more than two years between Marsaxlokk Heritage, Heritage Malta, and the Malta Tourism Authority has successfully restored one of Malta’s last surviving traditional boats of the firilla typology. The vessel will now serve educational, research, and tourism purposes. Through the project ‘Restawr ta’ Qoxra tal-Baħar’, this traditional boat, over 100 years old and named ‘Lion’, has been returned to the sea in its original form. During the winter months, the restored boat will also be exhibited on land along the Marsaxlokk quay, enriching the picturesque character of Malta’s most iconic fishing village. Kickstarted in 2021 as a community initiative led by the voluntary organisation Marsaxlokk Heritage, the project began as an effort to save a rapidly deteriorating vessel. It subsequently evolved into a national initiative, under the stewardship of the Malta Tourism Authority and Heritage Malta, with a broader mission to safeguard Malta’s maritime heritage. The firilla was historically used as a sailed or rowed fishing boat. Despite their significant cultural value, such traditional wooden boats are becoming increasingly rare due to the challenges associated with their ownership and maintenance, often leading to abandonment and eventual loss. Restoration works at the Kalkara Boatyard, under the skilled craftsmanship of the Delceppo brothers, began shortly after the project’s official launch in February 2024. Wherever possible, original characteristics were carefully conserved, while deteriorated sections were reconstructed using traditional techniques and materials. Throughout the process, experts from Marsaxlokk Heritage and Heritage Malta closely supervised the works, which were comprehensively documented through technical reports and audiovisual material, including documentary productions. Among the project’s most significant achievements was the reconstruction of the traditional tarkija rigging – also known as the sprit-sail – a feature that started disappearing from Maltese waters in the 1950s. Following extensive research and dedicated craftsmanship, the tarkija was successfully recreated, allowing the vessel to sail once again. The project’s final phase also actively engaged the public through a series of painting workshops open to students, fishermen, enthusiasts, families, and local residents. Beyond restoring a single specimen, the initiative helps safeguard the art and craftsmanship of building traditional boats and the latter’s return to Maltese harbours. At the official inauguration of the restored firilla, the Minister for Tourism, Jo Etienne Abela, remarked that: “The restoration of the firilla is a clear example of how tourism can serve as a positive force in safeguarding our identity and cultural heritage. By investing in Malta’s maritime heritage, we are creating authentic experiences that strengthen our tourism offering while preserving what makes Malta truly unique. Marsaxlokk is one of our country’s most iconic villages, and projects such as this reinforce its distinctive character for the benefit of both residents and visitors. This collaboration between voluntary organisations and public entities demonstrates that, by working together, we can preserve our heritage while continuing to develop a high-quality tourism sector that is sustainable and benefits local communities.” The Minister for Arts, Culture and National Heritage, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, commented: “Our maritime heritage is an essential part of Malta’s identity and history. Every traditional vessel we preserve is more than a relic of our past – it is a living testament to the craftsmanship, skill and way of life that have shaped the Maltese people throughout the centuries. The restoration of the ‘Lion’ firilla is a clear example of what can be achieved when public entities, voluntary organisations and experts work together towards a common goal. This project has not only given new life to one of the last remaining firilli in Malta, but it is also ensuring that present and future generations have the opportunity to understand, appreciate and continue cherishing the maritime heritage that makes Malta unique.” Carlo Micallef, Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Tourism Authority, said: “The Malta Tourism Authority is proud to support projects that protect and showcase the cultural assets that define the Maltese Islands. Through our investment in the restoration of the firilla, we are helping preserve an important part of Malta’s maritime history while creating a unique attraction that enhances the visitor experience in Marsaxlokk. Sustainable tourism is not only about attracting visitors, but also about investing in the traditions, craftsmanship, and communities that give Malta its authentic identity. Supporting initiatives such as this ensures that these valuable elements of our heritage continue to thrive for residents and tourists alike.” Whilst thanking all those involved in conceiving and implementing this project, Heritage Malta’s Chief Executive Officer, Noel Zammit, emphasised the crucial role of the sea in Maltese identity. He stated that, “The sea has shaped who we are today, as our forefathers knew how to use it as a bridge rather than a barrier. It is precisely because we understand its importance that, at Heritage Malta, we continuously invest time and resources in it – through the extensive regeneration currently underway at the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu, as well as through the establishment, years ago, of the Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit, amongst many other initiatives.” Up Next Press Releases | 15th July 2026