Restoration works on the 150-year-old statue and pedestal that have long been a source of cultural and devotional significance at the extreme point of l-Aħrax tal-Mellieha have been completed, with the statue being reinstated to its original home – albeit a little further back from its initial position.
The statue, which now sits on the stone pedestal that was designed for it and discovered during restoration works, has been relocated further inland following concerns over its long-term stability that were first brought to light in 2022 when rock fissures appeared around it.
Subsequent geological studies prompted its need to move a safe distance away from the tip of the Marfa headland at L-Aħrax, while still retaining its alignment with the nearby chapel of the Immaculate Conception and connection with its surroundings.
During the dismantling of the statue – which dates back to 1870 – from its base, the original stone pedestal was discovered within the concrete structure.
“Given this discovery, works to remove the outer casing proceeded following discussion with the Superintendence for Cultural Heritage. Prior to commencement of works, the statue, lantern and marble plaque were carefully removed and stored off-site for safekeeping,” says project architect Timothy Portelli from the Restoration and Preservation Department.
“The structure beneath the pedestal appeared to be that of the original, however the upper corbelling and the lower detailing appear to have been intentionally removed, in order to fit the pedestal within the concrete trapezoidal volume.”
The missing elements were reconstructed and replaced at the Department’s Ospizio complex by the in-house warranted conservator and licenced mason, Francesco Sultana.
“Following transport and reinstatement of the pedestal on-site, the replacement elements were affixed, whilst plastic repair techniques were employed in select areas, to achieve the original volume of the monument. The pedestal was later finished in stone-coloured paint,” the architect notes.
While the original statue remains missing, the current statue, in a relatively good state of conservation, was reinstated atop the restored pedestal following the fixing of minor defects.
The marble plaque was restored and once again attached on the front of the monument within its original location, while the lantern – a relatively recent addition to the monument which was an offering of gratitude – was repurposed as a standalone lantern in front of the pedestal and statue.
“The retention of the lantern is of importance, given that it can be considered to be part of the physical manifestation of the devotion and significance attributed to the site,” says Timothy. “The lantern was manufactured and installed by a local blacksmith to give thanks to Our Lady after his safe arrival to port following a storm at sea.”
Photography: Restoration and Preservation Department
