The Heritage Interpretation Group (HIG) is a special interest group operating within the framework of Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna (FWA). The main function of this group is to provide re-enactments based on historic facts in order to bring to life historic sites restored and managed by Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna.

Given that the sites managed by FWA are numerous and of a varied nature, the Heritage Interpretation Group provides multi-period re enactments of a military nature. To date there are two distinct periods which are covered by re enactment – the late Victorian era, and the Second World War.

The HIG is based at Fort Rinella. In fact the HIG is today synonymous with both the fort and its excellent portrayals of the Victorian soldier. The HIG launched its re enactment activities with the forming of a unit depicting the Royal Malta Fencible Artillery of 1878. From modest beginnings in both numbers and equipment available, the group has gradually strengthened itself and grew. Out of the original artillery unit sprang a new infantry section recreating the Royal Malta Regiment of Militia of 1892. In order to avoid creating an historical anomaly and with a view that both the artillery and infantry units could interact freely during re enactments, the Royal Malta Fencible Artillery was disbanded and its place taken by the Royal Malta Artillery of 1892.

With the restoration of the R15 pillbox at Naxxar by FWA, the Heritage Interpretation Group set up a small section depicting the King’s Own Malta Regiment during the Second World War. Although small in size this unit is furnished with the full plethora of weapons and equipment one might expect to find in a pillbox during the Second World War.

The last unit created by the HIG is a small three-man section representing Royal Engineers telegraphers. This section comes into its proper element whenever events are organised at the Gharghur Semaphore tower.

Members of the HIG are also given the opportunity of re enactments at sites other than those managed by FWA. Re enactment events have been held along the Victoria Lines, at the Main Guard in Valletta, and abroad.

In 1997 the HIG were invited over to the UK to take part in a large eight-day re enactment event organised by English Heritage to mark the centenary of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. In subsequent years HIG members have participated in various other re enactment events in the UK.

The Heritage Interpretation Group also publishes a bi-monthly journal called The Broad Arrow. This publication features articles on historical and military subjects with particular emphasis on the Victorian period.

The HIG has over the years shown itself to be a flexible and dynamic organisation. The Group is not there to choreograph events and re enactment activities, but its aim is to act as a catalyst towards the better understanding of military history with special emphasis being laid on the local scene. Thorough research, faithfulness to history, and attention to detail ensure that the HIG re enactments do not degenerate into a fancy pageant but become a mirror of the past and an instructional experience.