Ta' Braxia Cemetery - an architectural appraisal

Abstract

The introduction of extra-mural cemeteries was a highly controversial issue in mid-nineteenth century Malta. The local church was vehemently opposed to the principle of establishing burial grounds outside the confines of local parishes, and even more so to the principle of multi-faith internment. Plague cemeteries were built outside urban areas but these were many a time neglected and had fallen into a state of disrepair. British servicemen had previously been buried in the Msida Bastion Cemetery, but by 1850 it could no longer accommodate more graves due to its restricted size. A new cemetery had to be planned for those adhering to the Protestant faith and other denominations who could not be buried in Catholic cemeteries. Ta’ Braxia was conceived as an interdenominational cemetery. It was built on a site just outside Porte des Bombes, and was readily accessible given its close proximity to Valletta and the Three Cities. It soon became the island’s principal garrison cemetery and the most important burial site for British servicemen during the second half of the nineteenth century. The site was already partially occupied by a few small cemeteries, including the Plague and Jewish cemeteries that straddled the old San Giuseppe road connecting Porte des Bombes to Marsa. In 1855, works commenced in earnest with the construction of the boundary wall as detailed plans of the new cemetery were presented to the Commanding Royal Engineer. This was necessary as clearance had to be sought from the military authorities to ensure that the cemetery as planned would not compromise the efficacy of the fortifications and defensive lines in the vicinity. The planning of the cemetery was entrusted to the Maltese architect Emmanuele Luigi Galizia (1830-1907).