The regeneration project of Pjazza tal-Belt Vittoriosa, better known as Misraħ ir-Rebħa in Birgu, has received international recognition after securing an award at the BIG SEE Makes Sense Awards in Slovenia and a Special Mention at the Architizer A+ Awards.

The project, inaugurated in April by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) in collaboration with Infrastructure Malta, focused on restoring and upgrading the historic square while preserving its cultural and architectural heritage.

The BIG SEE Festival is regarded as one of South-East Europe's leading platforms for architecture and design. According to the organisers, the Birgu project was recognised as an example of how historic public spaces can be revitalised while maintaining their cultural identity and historical significance.

The regeneration works included new paving, landscaping, lighting, seating areas and accessibility improvements, alongside the restoration of the Statue of Saint Lawrence and the historic Victory Monument.

The initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen the historic urban fabric of the Three Cities and enhance Malta's cultural tourism offering. The project was delivered through collaboration between the Malta Tourism Authority, Infrastructure Malta, Birgu Local Council and the Ministry for Tourism, with consultation involving the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, residents and other stakeholders.

Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela said the recognition reflects Malta's strategy of placing cultural heritage at the centre of sustainable tourism development, while MTA Chairman Charles Mangion described the awards as evidence of the value of continued investment in heritage, culture and quality public spaces.

MTA Chief Executive Carlo Micallef said the accolades reinforce Malta's position as a cultural destination offering authentic heritage-based experiences and reflect the country's ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism development and cultural preservation.