Architectural aesthetics in Malta : a historical description

Abstract

This work has been conceived through this author's desire to perceive and understand the origin, philosophy and inspiration of the Maltese architect's concern with the beautiful. By observing these qualities in the various periods of Maltese architecture it is hoped that the reader will establish his personal vision of the development of local architecture. A pattern or direction in art is of greater validity if this artistic treatment is observed over a considerable passage of time. This author has therefore chosen to look into Maltese architecture starting at the beginning, in the monumental buildings of our prehistoric era. This dissertation ends in the twentieth century. Thus, at face value, this work may be considered as a brief history of architectural development, but his viewpoint is only of secondary importance.