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Maltese Kajjik Spotted in French Harbour: A Tale of Restoration and Cultural Preservation
August 17 2024 14:10 by PCLMedia
Maltese travellers often stumble upon nostalgic reminders of home during their journeys, but few encounter a living piece of Maltese maritime history so far from the island. This week, photographer Daniel Cilia experienced such a moment when he spotted a traditional Maltese kajjik in the picturesque harbour of Honfleur, Normandy, France.
The vessel, named ‘Santa Maria’, stood out among the modern boats in the bustling harbour with its vibrant blue and yellow colors and the Eye of Osiris painted on the bow. This eye-catching detail, a symbol of protection and good fortune in Maltese culture, made the boat a striking contrast to the contemporary vessels docked nearby.
“It was a surreal experience,” Cilia told Times of Malta. “The sight of this traditional boat in such an unexpected location was almost too perfect to be real. If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I might have thought it was a digital creation.”
Upon investigating, Cilia learned that the kajjik, which was originally built in 1967, had been brought to France by a family who once lived in Malta. When the family relocated to Honfleur, they chose to bring their beloved boat with them, opting for a meticulous restoration at the Poudreux shipyard in 2021.
“The Santa Maria was carefully transported from Malta to Honfleur in a container. Recognizing its sentimental value, the Poudreux shipyard undertook a thorough restoration to preserve its charm while incorporating modern elements,” Cilia explained. The shipyard not only restored the boat to its former glory but also installed an electric motor, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary technology.
The Santa Maria’s presence in Honfleur is particularly notable given the popularity of the harbour among tourists, drawing thousands annually. The boat's unique appearance makes it a standout feature in the otherwise modern fleet.
In Malta, the kajjik is a smaller counterpart to the luzzu, both of which are traditional fishing boats integral to the island's maritime culture. The kajjik, with an average length of 4.6 meters and a flat stern, contrasts with the luzzu’s double-ended hull. Historically, kajjikki were constructed from wood, but recent models are predominantly made from fiberglass. Despite this shift, many traditional wooden kajjikki still operate, especially in St. Paul’s Bay and Marsaxlokk.
The kajjik has roots dating back to the 17th century, evolving from the caïques used by the Order of Saint John’s navy. It served various purposes, including night fishing and passenger transport. Noteworthy variants include the kajjik tal-lampara, equipped with a light for nocturnal fishing, and the kajjik tal-gangmu, designed for shellfish collection.
Maltese traditional boats, including the luzzu and kajjik, are emblematic of the island’s rich maritime heritage. The Eye of Osiris painted on these boats is a significant cultural symbol, reflecting Malta’s unique identity and attracting tourists.
To support the preservation of this heritage, the Maltese government introduced the Traditional Boats Restoration Scheme in 2023. This initiative aims to help owners restore and maintain traditional wooden boats, including the luzzu, kajjik, and other historical types. This scheme underscores the importance of preserving Malta’s maritime legacy, ensuring that these cherished vessels continue to be part of the island’s cultural tapestry for generations to come.
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