A working boat under sail and oars
Heritage Malta describes the firilla as a traditional fishing boat once sailed or rowed. Wooden boats need continuing care, and surviving examples have become rare as maintenance grows harder.
Bringing Lion back to the water
In July 2026, Heritage Malta reported the restoration of Lion, a firilla more than a century old. The project brought together Marsaxlokk Heritage, Heritage Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority. Craftspeople conserved original features where possible and rebuilt damaged parts using traditional materials and methods.
Keeping skills alive
The work included recreating the tarkija, or sprit-sail rig, a feature that had been disappearing from Maltese waters since the 1950s. Public painting workshops also involved families, students and fishermen. It is a reminder that preserving fishing heritage means passing on practical skills, not just keeping an object on display.