Valletta's balconies and their saljaturi

Abstract

Architecture is definitely one of the most powerful forms of art; buildings have the ability to loom in the distance when seen from afar. However many of Valletta's buildings are underestimate, even though hundreds of people visit Malta's capital city daily, little attention is given to the fine architecture in the streets they're passing through. This may be due to fast paced lives and narrow streets with high-rise buildings. But as you raise your head a new world appears and minute details such as stone quality, texture and the ornate detailing become apparent. Whether one turns to the left or right, looks up or down, detailed architecture and ornaments are constantly presented to the viewer who stands amidst. This quality is unique to architecture as it is the only form of art to totally surrounds its viewer with such magnitude. One of the most beautiful facade's ornaments are the corbels, these are used in many ways in architecture but in my dissertation I will study the corbels supporting the balconies of Valletta; the saljaturi. I will discuss their historical background from their initial appearance to how these evolved throughout the years. This will include the structural use of such corbels in relation to the balconies, their aesthetic value and the symbolism conveyed through highly ornamental details. I will also try to evaluate what are the main causes for their deterioration. This research will also be backed up by photographic documentation.