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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 13 MARCH 2022 4 CULTURE A fresh lease for Mdina's Palazzo de Piro It has been 10 years since the completion of the restoration works which returned the fabled Palazzo de Piro in Mdina to its original splendour. As the Mdina Metropolitan Chapter embarks on the search for a new tenant, MGR SALVINU MICALLEF takes us through the history of this imposing 17th century palace that rests in the shadow of Mdina's majestic cathedral What are the origins of Palazzo de Piro? As with most of the palaces and landmarks situated in the old capital of Mdina, the pres- ent Palazzo is proudly bestowed with a long history of succes- sion, ownership, and character. Originally the area of the pres- ent building was occupied by three separate houses with the oldest parts forming a clutter of houses with the residence of the Falca family and its earliest known member being Marciano, who by 1429, served as a jury. If we recall the famous historical account of when the Maltese inhabitants had to buy back the Maltese Islands from Gonsalvo Monroy, Marciano himself had intervened to settle part of this debt. Tell us about the architecture of this building? The architectural features we see today may indicate that the palazzo is presumed to have been built under the supervi- sion of Girolamo Cassar or his oeuvre. The imposing baroque edifice knows an opulent peri- od of sumptuous banquets and balls. The building also suggests that during the last two centu- ries, various modifications were conducted to accommodate the diverse needs of its different owners. What about the more recent history? During the 19th century the palazzo fell into the possession of Cavaliere Giovanni Parisio Muscati. Later on, Alexander De Piro D'Amico Inguanez and his new wife Orsola took up residence here soon after their marriage in 1868 where they raised a family of seven boys and two girls. One of these was the renowned Monsignor Giuseppe De Piro, founder of the 'Mission- ary Society of St Paul'. After his demise, his wife Orso- la took over the management of the house and family. Orsola was an heir with several properties including a palace and a small church in the heart of Florence and as a Maltese matriarch, she managed to keep up with both her family and the considerable charity works. The palace was also part of St Dorothy's school.... In fact it was after World War II that Palazzo De Piro, which until then was still known as 'Casa Fortunata', was sold by Orsola's heirs. The new own- ers, the Dorothean nuns, made extensive structural changes to convert the property into a girls' school. Then In 2005 the Met- ropolitan Chapter acquired the palazzo. The Chapter took the opportunity and invested sub- stantially in restoring and reno- vating this historical gem to its former glory. After some years of challenging work and thought, the palazzo opened its doors and hosted many memorable events and relaxing activities. The major strength of Palazzo de Piro must be its enviable location.... Yes. In fact, this landmark's most defining attribute is the fact that its terrace, perched on the bulky De Redin bastions, commands one of the most pan- oramic spots on the island and offers a most spectacular pano- rama of Malta and its coastline ranging from the southern re- gions of Mqabba all the way to the northern regions of St Paul's Bay. What about its internal layout? Visitors entering the palace find themselves in an impressive foyer that leads to a charming central courtyard overlooking the bastions, flanked by highly decorated rooms that offer the perfect setting for events and so- cial gatherings. A grand staircase embellished with carved stone sculptures of the De Piro crest and an elegant dolphin, leads to the piano nobile with stunning spacious halls, decked with fine damask wall panels, intricately carved fireplaces, and regal Mu- rano-glass chandeliers. Up until recently, the palace hosted a restaurant, held cultural events, conferenc- es, corporate meetings and art exhibitions. What is the Metropolitan Chapter looking out for? Yes, the spacious grand halls and the courtyard have proved ideal for such activity. Although exposed to open views, the ven- ue remains sheltered by the ca- thedral church's bastions on one side and the rest of its wall struc- tures and all in all, it turned out to be a successful ten-year busi- ness venture. This is a very special landmark that will always translate into the perfect space for any occasion or memorable experience. The palazzo redefines the concept of nobility life, aligned to pres- ent day requirements. There- fore it offers a fertile explorative ground for entrepreneurship. This is why the Metropolitan Chapter is now inviting entre- preneurs seeking an investment opportunity, to submit their ideas and proposals for another long-term concession of one of the major and rarest landmarks inside Mdina. Mgr Salvinu Micallef