Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1252422
28.05.2020 10 TOWNSCAPES THE unique historical prop- erty of Villa Frere and most of its reputable landscaped gar- den area have been given the highest level of protection fol- lowing a decision taken by the Planning Authority in consul- tation with the Superintend- ence of Cultural Heritage. Martin Saliba Chairperson of the Planning Authority's Executive Council said "al- though most of this proper- ty, which is one of the finest examples of 18th century Neoclassical British archi- tecture in Malta, has already been protected as a Grade 2 building for several years, we strongly feel that Villa Frere merits the highest level of protection. The heritage rich- ness of this property is not only tied to the architecture of the villa and its terraced gardens but also important is the social and cultural expe- rience that this property was exposed to." Perit Edward Said, Founder of heritage NGO Friends of Villa Frere said "We are very satisfied that the Planning Authority has upgraded to a Grade 1 monument status with the protection of Villa Frere. It reassures us that the sterling work and dedication many volunteers put into carefully conserving the exist- ing fabric of the property over the last seven years and mak- ing it accessible to the public is not time-wasted. The Villa and its unique grounds stand- ing are distinct and once in- ternationally acclaimed. The estate attained a carefully planned yet organic design, defined by the Pieta' hillside landscape rather than based on formality and symmetry which usually characterise Maltese gardens. Together with Heritage Malta we will keep working to preserve this State-owned property for fu- ture generations." Built during the 18th centu- ry, the villa became the resi- dence of Sir John Hookham Frere, an English diplomat of considerable repute. Fol- lowing the death of his wife, Frere built extensive terraced gardens on the rear of the property which was previous- ly garrigue. The garden was built up through excavation and construction of terraces and some 13 wells were dug to irrigate the area. The garden was adorned by a number of garden follies in the tradition- al english style. The gardens contain a number of rare ar- chitectural features, more im- portantly are the exedra built at the highest level of the gar- dens which is referred to as a 'tempietto', a belvedere and a blind arcade. These botanic gardens also have two rural structures, arched reservoirs, covered passages, staircases and ponds. In the 1930s, some of these gardens were taken over for the construction of St. Luke's Hospital and in the 1970/80s yet another part was devel- oped as a state school. It is documented that Sir John was a good friend of one of Mikiel Anton Vassalli, con- sidered to be one of the fa- thers of the Maltese language. He, together with other dis- tinguished guests was a reg- ular visitor to these gardens. Sir John Hookham Frere died at his residence and was bur- ied at the Msida Bastion Cem- etery which is in direct sight of Villa Frere. To view all scheduled build- ings and properties in Malta and Gozo you may visit www. pa.org.mt Planning Authority increases protection status of Villa Frere Unique Neoclassical property becomes a Grade 1 building Photo: M. Bonello Photo: Brendan Buttigieg