What used to be one of Valletta’s busiest commercial spots is getting one heck of a make-over! The façade of a number of shopfronts along Ta’ Liesse Hill in Valletta, leading to Victoria Gate, are set to be restored.

The restoration project is part of a wider initiative to regenerate this part of Valletta, making it more appealing for visitors to venture round. In a statement, the Maltese Planning Authority says, “The façades of the buildings are in dire need of restoration and are suffering from deteriorated and damaged stonework, black crust, biological growth, and missing architectural elements.” The works ensure that these iconic buildings will regain their former character and charm.

Back when the Knights inhabited our island, Ta’ Liesse Hill was one of the only three access points into Valletta. Under the British reign, a gate was built in 1885 to service activity in and out of Valletta from the Grand Harbour, and was named Victoria Gate, after then-monarch, Queen Victoria. The street was one of Valletta's busiest commercial locations, where countless locals would flock to visit the many shops on either side of this renowned street.

The planning permissions have been endorsed by the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage and will be monitored by the Planning Authority's conservation officers. We can't wait to see the outcome!