Century-old firilli boat restored to preserve Malta's maritime heritage
Traditional fishing boat will serve as an educational, tourism and research attraction after two-year restoration
One of Malta’s last surviving traditional "firilli" boats got a new lease of life as an educational, tourist and research attraction following two years of restoration.
The boat, which is over a century old and named Lion, was restored by Marsaxlokk Heritage, Heritage Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority.
The restoration works were carried out at the Kalkara Boatyard using traditional techniques and materials. The boat’s traditional tarkija rig, or sprit sail, was also reconstructed, reviving a distinctive feature that had all but disappeared from Maltese waters.
In winter, the Lion will be displayed along the Marsaxlokk waterfront.
Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela hailed the project as an example of how tourism can be a “positive force in protecting our identity and cultural heritage”.
“By investing in Malta’s maritime legacy, we are creating authentic experiences that strengthen our tourism offering while safeguarding what makes Malta truly unique,” Abela said.
He added this project helps reinforce Marsaxlokk’s distinctive character.
National Heritage Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said that every traditional boat saved is “not merely a relic of our past but a living testament of the craftsmanship, skill and way of life that shaped the Maltese people over centuries.”.