Damage Caused to Historic Mistra Battery

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna (FWA) regrets to report that last week two individuals illegally entered the historic Mistra Battery in Mellieħa, a protected heritage site under the care of the Foundation.

The individuals brought with them a quantity of electrical wire, which they proceeded to burn in order to remove its plastic insulation and recover the copper wire. The fire was lit dangerously close to the historic stonework, against the rear face of the small redan linking the battery’s two blockhouses. As a result, damage was caused to the historic masonry.

The two individuals were caught red-handed by the Police, who immediately arrested them. They were subsequently arraigned in court on Saturday, where both admitted their guilt and are now awaiting sentencing.

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the Malta Police Force for its prompt response upon being alerted to the incident. Their immediate intervention prevented the situation from potentially causing further and more serious damage to this important historic monument.

FWA is currently assessing the extent of the damage and will be taking the necessary measures to address it.

Mistra Battery is one of the finest surviving examples of Hospitaller coastal fortifications in Malta. Its construction took place in two stages, with the first phase completed towards the end of February or beginning of March 1715.

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna strongly condemns acts of vandalism and unauthorised entry into historic sites. Malta’s fortifications form an irreplaceable part of the country’s national heritage, and their protection is a shared responsibility.