Rabat’s historic Dar Saura will open its doors to the public for the very first time this weekend as part of the Rabat Sacrum festival.The event offers a special preview of the Malta Trust Foundation’s ambitious vision to transform the site into the Ta’ Saura National Empowerment Hub, dedicated to empowering children and young people with disabilities.The opening marks a significant milestone as the open day is exactly one year since Foundation chair Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca was symbolically handed the keys to the former 17th century home for the elderly by Archbishop Charles Scicluna. Since then, the building has been undergoing extensive restoration and redevelopment work.“The Ta’ Saura National Empowerment Hub is a beacon of hope for our children and young people with disabilities,” said Ms Coleiro Preca. “This project will not only restore a heritage site to its former beauty, but transform it into a living space where every young person can flourish.”Over the past year, the Foundation has overseen the clearance of more than 100 skips of debris, removal of outdated structural alterations, and conducted detailed structural testing, 3D surveys, and energy studies. A remarkable discovery during the cleanup was a large internal hall and additional rooms that had been blocked off with rubble for decades. This space is now set to become a youth social club and gymnasium as part of the overall development.Looking ahead, the Foundation plans to submit planning applications for the next phase of work in the coming weeks. Pending approval, full-scale modifications are expected to begin later this year, with phased development continuing throughout 2024.The estimated cost to convert the site is approximately €25 million. To fund this transformative project, the Malta Trust Foundation has launched an extensive fundraising campaign and is actively seeking partnerships with national and international stakeholders, including businesses, philanthropic organisations, and the wider community.As part of the Rabat Sacrum festival, visitors will have a unique opportunity to explore Dar Saura’s historic chapels dedicated to St Nicholas and St Paul, enjoy exhibitions by ArtBeat participants and interfaith schoolchildren, and attend concerts featuring young musicians from Villabianca, the Foundation’s Centre for Music and the Arts. A volunteer-run thrift shop and café will also be on site, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.“The Ta’ Saura National Empowerment Hub represents a powerful commitment to inclusion, dignity, and opportunity,” Ms Coleiro Preca added. “For all those eagerly awaiting its opening, Dar Saura promises to be a place of joy, empowerment, and a true celebration of ability.”Dar Saura will be open to the public on Saturday evening from 7.30pm to 11pm and again on Sunday morning, offering a rare glimpse into the future of this landmark project.Will you be visiting Dar Saura?•