11
COMMERCIAL
21.10.2021
One of Naxxar's
oldest residences
given special
protection
e Planning Authority also scheduled a mid-17th
Century property in Naxxar as a Grade 2 Protected
building. Considered to be one of Naxxar's oldest
properties, Villa Castro's simple design is reminiscent
of French Baroque architecture. e oldest parts of
the building survive from a hunting lodge which was
eventually extended into a villa with extensive gar-
dens at the back.
e organisation and architecture of its courtyard
uses classical proportions in an imposing statement
despite being void of any decoration.
e scheduling also incorporates a recent contem-
porary design extension, under the authorship of AP
Valletta, which was carried out in the courtyard area.
is is lifted above the ground on slender columns
in order not to obstruct the cornices, pilasters and the
pediment of the gate which once led to the garden be-
yond.
e extension received international awards for the
way it complimented and coexists with the existing
old residential building.
