Restoration of St John the Baptist Chapel in Għargħur nearing completion

Justice and Culture Minister Owen Bonnici yesterday visited restoration works which are being carried out by the Restoration Directorate on the Chapel of St John the Baptist, which is situated adjacent to the Għargħur Cemetery.

This restoration is envisaged to be completed in two weeks' time.

The origins of the chapel go back to the 13th Century. It is said that it was built in 1223 by Italian inhabitants and it was considered to be the first chapel to be built in Għargħur. It served as a parish church for Għargħur until the time when the present church was built. The church was then rebuilt and re-opened for service in 1675. The chapel is built in globigerina limestone and its main façade has a triangular pediment resting on two corner pilasters and surmounted by an intricately sculpted belfry.

The largest part of the damage was found on the side elevation overlooking the cemetery where several areas on stonework are in a rather advanced state of deterioration and would probably require replacement. Loss of pointing, powdering stone, black crust and biological growth are also present. 

Restoration of the Chapel of St John the Baptist includes the removal of metallic inserts and of heavily flaked renders and cement plasters, the application of biocides, dry and wet brushing, stone replacement, the opening of joints and pointing with hydraulic lime. 

"This is one of the many restorations currently happening around the island. We strive to keep on preserving our heritage, through the careful restoration of historical sites found within our localities. It is through such initiatives that we can truly appreciate where our extensive heritage comes from, and we are committed to keeping on working towards safeguarding our country's heritage," stated Minister for Justice, Culture and Local Government Owen Bonnici during this site visit.

Also present for this visit, Parliamentary Secretary for Youths, Sport and Voluntary Organisations, Clifton Grima.

from The Malta Independent https://ift.tt/2H5ZMEO
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