Street niches at Rabat, Gozo

Abstract

Rabat, the capital of Gozo, has been described as a mason's earthly paradise. Handsome stone balconies are a feature throughout the fifty-seven streets that compose it. These balconies, although they present a distinctly oriental appearance, are the heritage of the Knights. The ejght-pointed Maltese cross can be seen again and again, carved out in the soft stone; the crescent of Pinto, the cockades of Zondadari, the Fleur--de-Lys of Wignacourt and the stars of Garzes are all present in these balconies - traditional motifs of the stone-mason's art.