Noel Zammit

Q: Heritage Malta has seen major transformation recently. What’s driven this shift?
A: While our mission to safeguard and make cultural heritage accessible remains unchanged, Heritage Malta has undergone significant internal restructuring.

We’ve consolidated departments, introduced new ones, and invested heavily in staff development and technology. Central to all changes has been the visitor experience – enhancing how people engage with our heritage.

Q: How do you balance rising visitor numbers with preservation needs?
A: In 2024, our sites welcomed over 1.7 million visitors – an increase of nearly 300,000 compared to the previous year. This marked a 24% year-on-year increase in revenue-generating admissions. While tourism brings essential revenue for reinvestment, we’re mindful of overcrowding.

At sensitive sites like the Hypogeum, tighter controls are in place, and extended summer hours at some of our other sites help spread visitor flow. Our conservation teams continuously monitor and conserve key locations including our World Heritage Sites as listed by UNESCO.

Last year, we reopened the restored Grand Master’s Palace, with other major projects underway, including the Main Guard, Villa Guardamangia, Villa Portelli, and the Malta Maritime Museum.

Q: With 153 events planned for 2025, how do you ensure they’re inclusive and engaging?
A: Our year-round Events Calendar is designed to connect diverse audiences with Malta’s heritage through immersive and accessible experiences.

We’re celebrating major anniversaries in 2025, such as the 50th of the National War Museum, the 110th anniversary of the first sketches of the Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex, and 460th of the Great Siege.

Bilingual events, tailored activities for specific needs, and enhanced access via student and senior passport schemes ensure broad engagement. Our tech investments have also enabled more interactive experiences for visitors.

Q: How can the hospitality industry support Heritage Malta through your Patronage Programme?
A: The Patronage Programme invites individuals and businesses to play an active role in heritage preservation. Corporate Patronage offers unique event access and public recognition.

We also welcome partnerships with hotels, tour operators, schools, and NGOs, encouraging resource-sharing, staff development, and co-management of sites.

Volunteering is another avenue – companies can organise team-building days involving work at our sites, deepening employee engagement with Maltese heritage. More info: https://patronage.heritagemalta.mt/leave-a-legacy