Fort Binġemma officially transferred to Xjenza Malta

Fort Binġemma, the historical site located on the outskirts of Rabat, was officially transferred to Xjenza Malta on Tuesday. 

Back in August, a family who has lived in the fort for decades was evicted from the Grade 1 protected fort. 

In a press release on Tuesday, it was announced that the site will be known as Space Park Malta, an astronomical centre run by Xjenza Malta. 

The Space Park Malta will be developed with respect towards the historical character of the fort, while offering modern infrastructure such as the Earth Observation Centre, using satellite data for maritime security, environmental monitoring and land use. 

The park will also include a Research Observatory as well as a public observatory and will feature a public library. 

The announcement was made at Villa Bighi by Lands Minister Owen Bonnici. 

"Fort Binġemma holds great historical and cultural value, and through this transformation, it will also become a symbol of how our heritage can be turned into a driver for scientific and educational growth," Bonnici said. 

"With this step, we are showing how Malta can place its historical identity as the foundation for a future of innovation and learning.”

In the absence of the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, the Chief Executive of Xjenza Malta, Silvio Scerri, said the project represents a clear choice that Maltese heritage should serve the public good. 

"Through Space Park Malta, we are creating a space where science and innovation meet education and families, thereby building a future founded on knowledge and opportunity. This is part of Malta Vision 2050, which looks towards a more resilient and competitive country in emerging sectors.”

Fort Binġemma, located on the outskirts of Rabat, lies in one of the most remote areas of Malta, with minimal light pollution from its surroundings. Forming part of the Victoria Lines, the fort was built in the 19th century as part of a defence complex that crosses Malta from east to west.

In 1981, the fort was handed to Gaetano Buttigieg for cow-rearing in a 16-year lease that expired in 1997. The original terms of the lease did not allow it to be used as a private residence. 

Attempts to remove Gaetano’s heir, Steve Buttigieg, from the fort or reach a settlement have been ongoing since at least 2011.

A 2021 Lands Authority audit flagged inaction over Buttigieg’s occupation of the fort.