Representing Valletta : glory, decline and rehabilitation

Abstract

This study is concerned with the concept of representation and interpretation of a Mediterranean city: the capital of Malta, Valletta. Like any other city in the world, Valletta, has been the subject of countless imagery and studies. It showered much praise on its historical, archaeological, and architectural merits. Less popular however, is the research carried out in the fields of literature and popular culture. The study takes a look at the representation and interpretation of Valletta within the literary, cinematic, artistic, and more pop-cultural fields. Moreover, it highlights the cultural, traditional, and creative aspects of the city, since each portrays a different point of view which contributes to the identity of Valletta. Reference is also made to the different individuals making up the city since they are significant to the continuation of traditions and values in the city. The study also provides a lens with which to view Valletta in relation to other cities in contemporary time. This is done by giving an interpretation of Valletta through Italo Calvino’s novel, Invisible Cities. The outcome of this study illustrates how Valletta, although old in its foundations, is still considered as being a young city on a continuous process of development. This is done by making reference to its glory, decline and rehabilitation processes.