Conservation of cultural landscapes : the area surrounding the Marsamxett and Grand Harbours

Abstract

Cultural landscapes are the result of man's actions over a territory being thus the product of two dimensions - the natural and cultural. In conservation the relatively new concept of cultural landscapes has increased the range, and area of sites to be protected by integrating problems of a historical, ecological and social nature together with such an approach conservation becomes a multidisciplinary subject requiring the input of various professionals from different circles but also and more importantly that of local communities - which experience the cultural landscape on a first hand basis. This 'democratic' idea behind cultural landscapes enables stakeholders to take an active role in the conservation and management of their environment which also result in truly living places - from all points of view. Locally the area surrounding the Marsamxett and Grand Harbours is by far one of the most important landscapes; it accommodates a large percentage of the island's population, and is also the archipelago's main administrative, commercial and tourist centre. In view of today's heavy pressures on the region one must protect and accommodate the incredibly vast nature of its history, and also seek to improve and integrate the area's limited natural environments whilst keeping in mind factors which contribute to the area's livelihood.