Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1254350
14 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 3 JUNE 2020 COMMERCIAL THE unique historical proper- ty of Villa Frere and most of its reputable landscaped garden ar- ea have been given the highest level of protection following a decision taken by the Planning Authority in consultation with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage. Martin Saliba, Chairperson of the Planning Authority's Exec- utive Council said "although most of this property, which is one of the finest examples of 18th century Neoclassical British architecture in Malta, has already been protected as a Grade 2 building for several years, we strongly feel that Vil- la Frere merits the highest lev- el of protection. The heritage richness of this property is not only tied to the architecture of the villa and its terraced gar- dens but also important is the social and cultural experience that this property was exposed to." Perit Edward Said, Found- er of heritage NGO Friends of Villa Frere said "We are very satisfied that the Plan- ning Authority has upgraded to a Grade 1 monument sta- tus with the protection of Villa Frere. It reassures us that the sterling work and dedication many volunteers put into care- fully conserving the existing fabric of the property over the last seven years and making it accessible to the public is not time-wasted. The Villa and its unique grounds standing are distinct and once internation- ally acclaimed. The estate at- tained a carefully planned yet organic design, defined by the Pieta' hillside landscape rath- er than based on formality and symmetry which usually char- acterise Maltese gardens. To- gether with Heritage Malta we will keep working to preserve this State-owned property for future generations." Built during the 18th century, the villa became the residence of Sir John Hookham Frere, an English diplomat of consid- erable repute. Following the death of his wife, Frere built extensive terraced gardens on the rear of the property which was previously 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 traditional english style. The gardens contain a number of rare architectural features, more importantly are the exe- dra built at the highest level of the gardens which is referred to as a 'tempietto', a belvedere and a blind arcade. These botanic gardens al- so have two rural structures, arched reservoirs, covered pas- sages, staircases and ponds. In the 1930s, some of these gardens were taken over for the construction of St. Luke's Hos- pital and in the 1970/80s yet another part was developed 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 fathers of the Maltese language. He, together with other distin- guished guests was a regular visitor to these gardens. Sir John Hookham Frere died at his residence and was buried at the Msida Bastion Cemetery 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 PHOTOS BY BREANDAN BUTTIGIEG