One of Malta’s last surviving firilli has been brought back to life following more than two years of restoration work.The traditional Maltese boat, Lion, which is over 100 years old, has been restored through a collaboration between Marsaxlokk Heritage, Heritage Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)Restoration works were carried out at the Kalkara Boatyard using traditional techniques and materials, including the reconstruction of the boat’s distinctive tarkija (sprit sail), a feature that has almost disappeared from Maltese waters.The project began in 2021 with the aim of saving one of the country’s last remaining firilli and has since grown into a national initiative to preserve Malta’s maritime heritage.During the winter months, Lion will be exhibited along the Marsaxlokk waterfront, while also serving educational, tourism and research purposes. The project also included public workshops and aims to help preserve the traditional craft of Maltese boatbuilding while encouraging more historic vessels to return to local harbours.Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela described the restoration as an example of how tourism can help protect Malta’s identity and cultural heritage, saying projects like this strengthen Marsaxlokk’s unique character while creating authentic experiences for visitors.Meanwhile, Culture Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said every traditional boat that is preserved is a living testament to the craftsmanship and way of life that shaped the Maltese people, adding that the project will help future generations appreciate the country’s rich maritime heritage.•