UPDATE ON THE RESTORATION OF THE CLOCK TOWER

The Department of Culture, the Arts and National Heritage, under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, is pleased to share an update on the ongoing restoration of the Clock Tower — one of Seychelles’ most iconic national monuments.

Restoration works continue to progress steadily across both the civil works and monument restoration phases, with significant progress already achieved.

This project goes far beyond a routine renovation. Every stage of the restoration is being carried out with great care, following extensive research, technical assessments and specialised conservation practices aimed at preserving the heritage value and original character of the monument.

Civil Works Progress:

The civil works component, undertaken in collaboration with the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency (SIA), is currently estimated at 75% completion. Significant progress has been made on the Clock Tower plinth, with finishing works and the installation of stone cladding expected to continue over the next one to two weeks.

Utility works relating to the Clock Tower itself, including power and water supply connections, also commenced on Saturday 2nd May and include the necessary road crossing operations to connect services to the monument site.

Monument Restoration Progress:

The restoration and surface treatment of the Clock Tower itself is also progressing steadily under close technical supervision.

Approximately 80% of the sandblasting works have now been completed. The main sections of the monument have already been treated, with work now focusing on the smaller decorative details that contribute to the Clock Tower’s distinctive character.

Once blasting works are completed, the team will begin the repair and restoration phase, expected to last approximately two weeks. This stage includes the careful restoration of architectural features and the reinstatement of elements true to the monument’s original design.

Specialised conservation-grade materials required for these repairs are currently being sourced overseas and are expected to arrive in time for the next phase of works.

Additional Surface Preparation:

Recent works have also included the application of a protective anti-rust coat and undercoat to prepare the monument for its final paint finish. Minor surface imperfections identified during the process are also being carefully treated and repaired.

Commitment to Heritage Preservation:

The Clock Tower remains an enduring symbol of Seychelles’ history and national identity, and its restoration continues to be approached with the care and respect such a landmark deserves.

The Ministry extends its sincere gratitude to all local and international partners contributing to this important project through their technical expertise, support and dedication to heritage conservation.

The Ministry also thanks the public for its continued patience, interest and support as works progress. Further updates will be shared as the project advances.