19th and 20th century public gardens in Valletta and Floriana : plans, proposals and layout

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is the art historical appreciation of the public gardens in Valletta and Floriana, during the 19th and 20th centuries. Apart from a few isolated articles, and contributions within the generic spheres of history and architecture, these gardens have not been previously dealt with in academic writing. An account of public gardens and groves in Malta has however been written by Mr. Joseph Borg, but this deals predominantly with the horticultural aspect. Reference has been made to Donald H. Simpson's contribution about monuments in Valletta, and Emmanuel S. Tonna's publication about Floriana, both of which have been very useful to me. Apart from the actual appreciation of the gardens, plans, proposals and drawings at the Works Department have been taken as a second point of departure, and a chronological sequence of events has been assimilated through them. When possible, manuscripts at the National Archives at Rabat have been utilised to verify the considerations made. Furthermore, the proposals have been evaluated for their own merits, and within the context of the pertaining garden. Identifying the authors behind these proposals provides a scope for further study. The public aspect of these gardens is brought out the most through the articles and letters featured in the periodical Il-Furjana, as the observations made are by people who have lived with these gardens as part of their everyday reality. A number of difficulties were encountered during research, like incorrect filing and some missing plans in the Works Department. Obtaining copies of certain drawings has also posed a problem, as a number of these are old and crumbling. Photographing has at times also proved unsuccessful due to fading.