The cultural domain of the harbour : the potential of the maritime fortified cities as sustainable cultural economic drivers for the Maltese Islands

Abstract

This research gauges the potential of Maltese maritime fortified cities in the East Harbour through the application of the ‘Circles of Sustainability’ assessment. The study was not carried out simply for academic purposes but because it measures effectively the political, economic socio-cultural dynamic of this hub established for hundreds of years and which represents Malta’s urbanisation from the 1500s to present day. The Circles of Sustainability method has been applied because of its proven record as a means ‘for assessing sustainability and for managing projects directed towards socially sustainable outcomes’. This method has been considered because of the forward looking South-East Region’s vision with its submission to become a signatory to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact Cities Programme. This paper is also a means to apply a holistic approach to understanding urban politics and urban planning in the South-East Region as well as a tool for conducting sustainability analysis and profiling sustainable development. The project followed criteria set by the Circles of Sustainability assessment. The research is also based on the parameters set by the European Walled Towns (EWT) constitution and embraces its mission to direct fortified cities to evolve as sanctuaries of conciliation and peace.