The Cittadella is Gozo’s
foremost historic fortified site. The importance of this fortress emanates from
its historic role as the island’s central point of refuge and administrative
and political centre, all of which date back to antiquity. The present
fortifications are a combination of an early seventeenth century bastioned
enceinte ‘alla Italiana’ and the remains of earlier medieval walls.
The envisaged improved
overall condition of the citadel’s fortified enceinte will help enhance its
value as a historical and architectural asset and help make it more attractive,
presentable, and accessible as a cultural-tourism heritage product.
Although various
restoration interventions have been carried out in different areas of the
Cittadella over the years, the extent of damage being exhibited is such to call
for immediate action to ensure the preservation of this fortified city. The
conservation issues which need to be addressed relate to the stability of the
rock bed foundation of the enciente, and the restoration of the bastion
ramparts. To this end, a detailed recording of the present state of the fabric
was required.