A section of the Vittoriosa bastions that was hidden for almost a hundred years was revealed today when what remained of the building in front of it was demolished.

Resources Minister George Pullicino, whose ministry carried out the works, said a 'jewel of architecture' had been revealed.

This section of the bastions was hidden by what was known as the 'oil depot building' built by the British forces early in the last century.

The removal of the building had given rise to some controversy, with the Opposition representative on Mepa, Roderick Galdes, voting against the project.

The Resources Ministry however successfully argued before Mepa that the building had no historical or architectural importance and its removal would enhance the view of the bastions.

The section of the bastions revealed today would now be rehabilitated, Mr Pullicino said.

He went around the site accompanied by Vittoriosa Mayor Joe Boxall, who welcomed the fact that a new open space had been created.

The stones of the oil depot building have been kept by the contractor for re-use.