Architecture & Design | 17
W
hat constitutes a Maltese architectural
façade? What are the architectural
features which make a façade inherently
identifiable as Maltese? Maltese vernacular
architecture is steeped in the eclectic mix
that the islands passed through the aeons of
time; from megalithic beginnings to multiple
occupying nations passing their mix of
architectural styles through, forming a milieu
of stone, usually aureate in nature, bathed in
equally aureate incandescent light, harking
towards strong shadows and contrast, strong
lines with a mix of individuality and Maltese grit.
It is a pity that we are forgetting our Maltese
vernacular architectural roots and demolishing
our façades and village cores, all in the name of
"progress", which progress it is not.
The art of building with stone is fast
disappearing, consigned to the dustbin of
history with no master stonemason finding
an apprentice to teach his fading skillset, and
so are Maltese corbels, wrought iron work,
wooden balconies and detailed stonework.
To this end, the fight to preserve, or at least
visually document, the fast-disappearing
Maltese façades are laudable endeavours to be
commended.
