A descriptive gazetteer of ‘muxrabija’-windows and roundel carvings in the Maltese islands

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to catalogue both surviving and destroyed muxrabija-windows and roundel carvings in the Maltese Islands. These vernacular architectural features are slowly being lost in the name of progress. The few articles on these two architectural features proved to be essential, especially those by Prof. M. Buhagiar and Dr. C. J. Jaccarini, whose writings ware fundamental for this study. Some recorded examples in this gazetteer have been already documented by the above-mentioned authors. An introductory chapter provides a brief outline of Malta's Muslim and post-Muslim periods, during which time some architectural elements such as the cortile domorum type of house, the siqifah and the flat roof, could have been introduced to our shores. Along with such features and building techniques, the muxrabija-window and the roundel carving, could have appeared. The following chapters, that of the muxrabija-window and that of the roundel carving, respectively, describe the various characteristics. The muxrabija chapter outlines the development from the unique stone-oriented type to the modem timber-box. Other types such as the metal and aluminium ones, although in smaller numbers, and the various spy-holes cut directly through the wall facades, have also been noted. The chapter on the roundel carvings discusses the various typologies in the Maltese Islands and the various motifs which they entail, which include geometrical and floral motifs. Also interesting is the IHS monogram which at times appears integrated with Islamic patterns. A concluding chapter hints at conserving Malta's heritage in stone. The discussed examples make reference to the gazetteer in which each example is described within its proper context and is furnished with additional information such as location and measurements. A list of appendices lists a number of muxrabija-windows and roundel carvings which are no longer apparent. Two other appendices contain line drawings of muxrabija peep-holes and roundel motifs respectively.