The iconic skew arch dedicated to the Maltese capomastro (principal architect of the Order of St John) Giovanni Barbara, is set to receive some serious TLC in the coming months, as restoration works get underway. Looking over the Msida part of Marsamxett Harbour, the spectacular arch has been standing for nearly 300 years and has seen it all. Extensive damages were sustained by the arch during World War II, and sadly, had been left unseen to for years. Until now!

Finally, the iconic structure will be getting the facelift of its dreams! Barbara designed this skew arch at Sa Maison in Floriana as part of the Floriana Lines fortifications completed in 1726. The arch spans around nine metres over the Ritirata ditch and is considered one of the finest examples of a masonry skewed arch. The capomastro was one talented guy!

And it's not just set to look fresh, but it will house something fresh too! The restoration also means that the site will house the MICAS indoor galleries of contemporary art, which are set to open their doors in 2021! IPO Studio, a Florence-based architecture firm, is designing the space, which will include the restoration of historical fortifications.

What do you think about the restoration works? Let us know in the comments below!