Date: Saturday, 22 March 2025
Time: 09:00–13:00
Location: Salina Nature Reserve
We’re looking for dedicated volunteers to help clean the historical Salina saltpans—a site with a legacy dating back to the Knights of St. John. Established in the 16th century, these saltpans played a crucial role in Malta’s economy, producing one of the most valuable commodities of the time: sea salt. Today, we are not just keeping it as a nature reserve but also continuing this centuries-old tradition. Although, maintaining the saltpans is no easy task!
The Salt Production Process – A Tradition to Keep Alive
Salt harvesting is a long and meticulous process, requiring months of preparation before the first crystals are collected in late July. It all begins with draining the water from the saltpans, followed by essential repairs and thorough cleaning. Only after this can the pans be refilled with fresh seawater to allow natural evaporation under the summer sun. As the water slowly disappears, a sparkling layer of sea salt is left behind, ready for harvesting—just as it has been for hundreds of years!
What Will We Do?
Scrub, power-wash, and clean the saltpans to prepare them for the next stage of the salt production cycle.
Have meaningful conversations: this is not just about work! Enjoy the company of fellow volunteers, share your stories, and enjoy a cup of tea with the view after!
Experience hands-on heritage conservation: feel the connection to the past while actively helping preserve it.
Make a real impact: Help prepare the saltpans for the upcoming salt harvest and keep the tradition alive.
Learn a fascinating skill: Gain insight into the centuries-old salt-harvesting process, passed down through generations. Ask questions about the site’s history, salt harvesting, and more!
Be a part of the process – help us to clean the salt pans!
Spots are limited! Sign up now and help us protect this incredible piece of Maltese heritage and be part of the Salina story.
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