Seeking solace in the Mediterranean : architect Basil Spence in Malta

Abstract

In the late 1960s, the renowned British architect Sir Basil Spence (1907-1976) acquired a traditional house in Malta. It was certainly not one of the typical run-of-the-mill holiday villas that were popular with foreign visitors at the time. Rather, it was the complete antithesis of the speculative type of new accommodation that was fast sprouting to cater for the major influx of British expatriates who decided to take up residence in Malta, lured by generous tax incentives and the other intangible life-enhancing benefits of a relaxed lifestyle and a mild climate. The property that Spence had purchased, appropriately named ‘Dar tal-Għar’ was situated in the desolate landscape setting of Fawwara, on the outskirts of Siġġiewi. It enjoyed extensive views of a then pristine and enchanting countryside setting of terraced fields with rubble walls sloping down dramatically to the rugged coastline.