Awareness of modernist architecture in Malta

Abstract

Modern Architecture was practised in Malta way behind the international scene. Post WWII period was a challenging time for the Maltese, not only socially but also economically. Since central areas of the island were bombarded, locals barely had a decent shelter to live in. Apart from that, the population experienced a sudden growth. This was one of the reasons that saw the introduction of schemes for adequate social housing. Socially and economically, the Maltese society was not only experiencing a progress in lifestyle but also a shift from a military based economy to a free one, based on different sources of income, mainly from the tourism and the manufacturing industry. However, protection towards Iconic Modernist examples in Malta, came later than built heritage of an earlier period, resulting in lack of protection of the said examples. This study aims to have a better understanding of the significance of this era of architecture in Malta. Throughout the years, examples from this era suffered from insensitive alterations as well as threats of either partial or total demolition. To identify the present awareness in the local context, two means of analysis was carried out. First, a detailed analysis of the chosen buildings from different typologies helps to have a better understanding of why these were built, their function throughout the years, types of interventions carried out and what relevance these examples have for society. The second part is by interviewing relevant stakeholders to have different opinions from different people. As a result, this methodology helps to suggest what are the different possibilities which can help to raise awareness towards this architectural movement in Malta.