The Government of Malta has officially transferred Fort Binġemma to Xjenza Malta, marking a significant step towards transforming the historic site into a thriving center for science, education, and innovation. This initiative, known as Space Park Malta, aims to breathe new life into the previously neglected fort by combining its rich history with cutting-edge scientific facilities.
Located in Rabat, Malta, Fort Binġemma is a polygonal fort built by the British between 1875 and 1878 as part of the Victoria Lines. After years of abandonment and illegal occupation by the Buttigieg family, who used it as a pig farm and occasional restaurant, the government finally evicted them in August 2025 and took back control of the fort.
The Space Park Malta project will feature a range of innovative facilities, including an Earth Observation Centre, Research Observatory, public observatory, and Esplora Space, an interactive science center with exhibitions and outreach activities. The park will also house a public library, media creation facilities, and collaborative spaces for learning and innovation, as well as a dedicated environment for start-ups in the space sector.
According to Minister Owen Bonnici, the transformation of Fort Binġemma symbolizes Malta’s commitment to honoring its past while embracing a future built on science, education, and innovation. The project aligns with Malta’s Vision 2050, which aims to create a more resilient and competitive country in emerging sectors. With its rich history and new purpose, Fort Binġemma is poised to become a hub for scientific growth and discovery in Malta.
