The water tower supplies water to the Public Abattoir.
Not only is the water tower at Marsa’s Public Abattoir considered to be a site of industrial heritage, but it's even on its way to be listed as a site of cultural heritage.
Having stood tall for the past 90 years, the water tower fell into disrepair in the past couple of years, so it was only fair that it received a good dose of TLC.
Originally, the tower would be filled brackish water which, due to its high salinity level, caused corrosion and spalling. The tower was close to getting demolished due to its hazardous nature, however, Professor Ruben Paul Borg fought for it to remain standing.
It’s safe to say that his efforts were not in vain!
Marsa’s water tower was restored using ultra durable concrete which is six to seven times stronger than your average concrete. This should keep it standing for the foreseeable future.
The tower holds over 400 cubic metres of water, has a shell holding structure that is 15 centimetres thick, and is supported by 12 columns. Its height is equivalent to that of a five-story building.
A statue of St Mary that sits right underneath the tank was also restored. Farmers that used to visit the Abattoir back in the day would stop by the statue to say a prayer.
Have you ever visited this historical water tower?