Severe storm forces HM sites to close temporarily

Several of Heritage Malta’s (HM) sites were affected by the severe weather conditions over the weekend, forcing some venues to temporarily close down due to health and safety reasons, the Heritage Malta said in a press statement.

The prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, including the protective shelters, were unharmed; however, the Visitor Centre suffered some external damage, leading to the temporary closure of the site.

Fort St Elmo stood strong in heavy winds not suffering “any particular loss”, however, the site was temporarily closed as a safety precaution for being heavily exposed to northeastern winds, Heritage Malta said.

Considerable damage was caused in the Egmont Hall in Fort St Angelo include the roof and external information panels, HM added.

Further damages included the collapse of part of the boundary wall of the prehistoric site of Tas-Silġ in Marsaxlokk and some structural damage in one of the pavilions at St Paul’s Catacombs. Heritage Malta’s sites also saw some of its trees uprooted by the winds.

By the date of publication, HM reported having opened all the venues to the general public, including sites and museums.