Art nouveau to modernism : architecture in Malta, 1910-1950

Abstract

Architecture in Malta during the first half of the twentieth century has to date been a neglected area of academic research. Although there have been succinct contributions profiling some of the more prominent architects, Maltese architecture of this period has never been analyzed within the prevailing political and socio-economic context. This publication seeks to address this lacuna in local architectural history. The period under study is a tumultuous one, encompassing the First World War (1914–18), the Sette Giugno (1919), the Self-Government Constitution (1921), the suspension of that same Constitution (1930), the Language Question (mid-1930s), the Second World War (1939–45), and the Post-War Reconstruction (1943–50). It was a period of major challenges with Malta under British colonial rule, characterized by an unstable economy, distinct social classes, and political aspirations for greater autonomy and self-governance. Initially, the intention was to focus exclusively on the emergence of Art Nouveau architecture on the local scene. However, through the research conducted it soon became apparent that the Maltese architectural scene was far more varied and complex. To limit this study exclusively to the Art Nouveau would potentially have been deceptive and would not have reflected the actual course of local architecture in the inter-wars period. There were various other stylistic nuances ranging from the historical revival styles, classicism, eclecticism, Stile Liberty, Stile Littorio, and ultimately, leading to a belated acceptance of modernism. This study seeks to analyze this intricate architectural web with reference to specific buildings, architects, and their patrons. [Excerpt from Preface]