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Amazing behind-the-scenes shots reveal process behind Triton fountain restoration
The project, undertaken by Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli (Florence), took over six months complete!

Jillian Mallia
fountain before restoration
1. Before restoration
The fountain has been at the periphery of Valletta's City Gate square since 1959, and is the first attraction that welcomes locals and visitors alike to Malta’s capital.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
fountain in 1978
2. Rewind to 1978
In 1978, an incident occurred in which the Fountain’s basin collapsed and caused damage to the Tritons. Oh no!

Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
technical investigation
3. Technical investigation
Experts from Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli examine the fountain and decide on the best course of action for its effective restoration
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
dismantling
4. Dismantling operations
The fountain was completely and carefully dismantled for easier transportation to the restoration site in Florence, Italy.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
cleaning
5. Cleaning time
The entire fountain was extensively cleaned from dirt which had accumulated over the years.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
stainless steel
6. Creation of internal skeleton
As part of the restoration process, a stainless steel internal skeleton was created to ensure a sturdier hold for the fountain.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
final touches
7. Finishing touches
The final touches are applied to the Tritons before their transportation back to Malta.

Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
reassembling
8. Reassembling the fountain
Almost done! The Triton fountain was carefully reassembled after final operations were completed.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
back to square
9. Homecoming
Once back on the island, the fountain was once again assembled in its original place, at the periphery of Valletta’s City Gate.
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook
valletta 2018
10. The grand unveiling
On 12th January 2018, the newly restored Triton Fountain was unveiled during the opening event for Valletta 2018 – Europe’s Capital of Culture, in all its glory!
Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli / Facebook

Jillian Mallia
Written by
Jillian Mallia
A book lover, writer and globetrotter who loves exploring new places and the local gems that the Maltese Islands have to offer. An avid foodie and arts fanatic, Jillian searches the island and beyond for the perfect settings to write about.

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