Malta Airport Foundation celebrates 10 years of heritage preservation and environmental protection

The Malta Airport Foundation celebrated the 10th anniversary since its establishment earlier this week, marking a decade of investment in the preservation of the Maltese Islands’ architectural, artistic, and marine heritage.

The milestone event, attended by key stakeholders and partners, including Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo, showcased the Foundation’s significant contributions to the safeguarding of Malta’s unique identity.

In his welcome address, Malta International Airport’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Borg, expressed immense pride in the Foundation’s achievements, having witnessed its growth first-hand over the past decade. 

“From our islands’ crystal-clear waters to historical sites that saw Malta’s wartime past unfold, and awe-inspiring works of art adorning our churches, palaces and museums, Malta’s distinct offering is in a class of its own. As the Malta Airport Foundation’s founder and sole financial donor, Malta International Airport is contributing to the protection and promotion of the very heritage that makes Malta such a sought-after destination, and ensuring that our country’s legacy is kept alive for future generations,” said Mr. Borg, whilst thanking the Malta Airport Foundation Board and partner organisations for their efforts throughout this decade-long journey.

During the same event, the Chairman of the Malta Airport Foundation, Josef Formosa Gauci, shed light on the investments undertaken over the past years, explaining that, “The first ten years of the Malta Airport Foundation have been nothing short of extraordinary, but our work is far from complete. We remain committed to safeguarding Malta’s unique past and will continue to ensure that our islands’ cultural heritage and natural beauty endure for the years to come.”

Since its establishment, the Malta Airport Foundation has forged strategic partnerships with local entities and NGOs to invest over €2 million in an extensive portfolio of projects aimed at preserving and promoting Malta’s heritage. Noteworthy achievements include the revival of historical sites such as Torri Xutu, Villa Hay, the Combined Operations Room and Operation Husky Museum, as well as the conservation of sacred art within the churches of St. Catherine of Alexandria in Żurrieq and Ta’ Ġieżu in Valletta. The Foundation has also spearheaded a series of marine projects aimed at bringing the historical and natural treasures hidden within Malta’s seas to the surface.