Approaching a fortified city : a study of the boundaries of Valletta

Abstract

Situated precisely at the entrance of the island's two main harbours, Valletta exudes a sense of grandeur and supremacy. Previously akin to the epitome of security and military might, Valletta and its fortifications now welcome all those who come to experience the island's various landscapes. Currently the capital city of Malta and the future European Capital of Culture for 2018, Valletta is the main cultural and social hub of the Island. Starting off with a historical analysis of the reasons why Valletta was built and the importance of its fortifications, this dissertation aims to study the development in purpose of Valletta throughout the years which in turn lead to a change in the approaches towards Valletta. A visual study of what this change entailed through the years is brought about by the use of mixed media such as old paintings and photographs in comparison to contemporary ones. This gives a clear indication of how the city changed to accommodate the current needs of the city and its inhabitants, with a particular emphasis on the periphery. Keeping in mind that the fortifications were the first part of Valletta to be built and that the rest of the urban fabric was built depending on these fortified lines, the dissertation proposes various ways of attracting people to the periphery, and also for the creation of a possible chain of green spaces, for locals and visitors alike, that will ultimately form a heritage trail. These proposals aim to regain the legibility of the fortifications, which rehabilitation will restore Valletta to its proper fortress-city state and at the same time create much lacking open spaces.