The development of rural landscapes : Mġarr in the 20th and 21st century

Abstract

The Maltese rural landscape and its utility has always been an important aspect in the lives of the local inhabitants. This landscape has been shaped over the years by countless settlements and civilisations that transformed it into a rich cultural one. Urban sprawl, resource demands and socio-economic conditions have shaped this landscape significantly. However, the local cultural rural landscape is often overlooked and documentation of its development is limited and sporadic. The rural landscape is often misvalued and viewed as the ‘negative’ of the urban landscape. Such perspective may be the result of an ambiguous national identity and conflicting personal interests. The definition of a rural place and its connection to the urban is therefore analysed in this dissertation. These definitions lead to a discussion regarding boundaries, value and the significance of place and landscapes. Mġarr, in relation to other settlements on the island, has developed in a unique way due to its location and setting. It is characterised by vast areas of utilised arable land and has gone through considerable urban and rural development. The development that took place in Mġarr since the start of the 20th century will be analysed using visualisations and different sources of information. The results are then discussed and plausible reasons that led to such development are outlined. Suggestions regarding the conservation of rural landscape are also given.