Din l-Art Helwa, National Trust of Malta, is a non-governmental, not-for-profit, voluntary organisation founded in 1965 to safeguard the historic, artistic and natural heritage of Malta.  Since its foundation, Din l-Art Helwa has restored and managed numerous cultural sites of immense historic and environmental importance.  We promote the preservation and protection of historic buildings and monuments, the character of our towns and villages, and places of natural beauty and importance and the flora and fauna of such places, especially in relation to the problems arising from modern urban development.  We stimulate the enforcement of existing laws and the enactment of new ones for the protection of our natural and built heritage.

The inaugural meeting of Din l-Art Helwa was held at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta on 9th July 1965. The Times of Malta wrote that the enthusiasm shown by all those who attended was a clear indication of the growing interest in, and the ever increasing concern for our National Heritage.  The role of Din l-Art Helwa was clearly laid down, and it remains the same today; to safeguard Malta’s cultural heritage and the natural environment for future generations, which includes the hands-on conservation and restoration of our cultural heritage.

Several of the outstanding historic properties and monuments which Din l-Art Helwa has saved, or helped to save, for the nation over the years would have been lost if Din l-Art Helwa had not physically intervened to save them. You will find an up-to-date list in the ‘Properties’ section of this website.