I had the privilege of visiting the gardens of Villa Frere to witness first hand the impressive works that are rejuvenating this historical treasure. Accompanied by the top management of Heritage Malta and members of the NGO Friends of Villa Frere, I was given a comprehensive briefing on the ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalize the exquisite gardens of this villa.

Over the past months, the focus has been on restoring the Gardeners' Cottage and Villa Hay. The latter holds special significance, having once served as a retreat for the ailing wife of John Hookham Frere, the renowned British diplomat, poet, scholar, and philanthropist who resided in Villa Frere during the early 19th century. As part of the restoration, a boundary that connects the villa to a neighbouring property is also being rebuilt with the aim of preserving the historical context and integrity of the site.

Stepping back into history, Villa Frere's story dates back to its construction in the early 19th century in Tal-Pietà. John Hookham Frere created extensive terraced gardens behind the villa, offering breathtaking views that stretched from Mdina to Valletta. The gardens also overlooked the Msida Bastion Cemetery, where his beloved wife rested. This tranquil sanctuary became a gathering place for scholars, most notably Mikiel Anton Vassalli, who discussed the establishment of Maltese as a written and taught language with Frère.

However, with Frere's passing in 1846, the romance and charm of Villa Frere and its gardens faded away, leading to decades of neglect. It was during Captain Edward Price's tenure, forty years later, that life returned to the property. His passion for gardening turned the villa into a celebrated botanic garden, attracting not only locals but also distinguished visitors like Queen Mary of England and Queen Marie of Romania.

Throughout the years, the fate of Villa Frere oscillated between periods of abandonment and restoration, until 2013 when a dedicated group of volunteers established the association Friends of Villa Frere. Their admirable efforts aimed to save what remained of the historic gardens and restore them to their former glory.

In 2019, positive developments took shape with Heritage Malta officially owning Villa Frere, yet the administration was entrusted to Friends of Villa Frere, fostering a collaborative effort to protect this precious heritage. Additionally, the Planning Authority's Grade 1 scheduling in 2020 recognized the villa and its gardens' significant cultural importance. To raise awareness further, the gardens are being opened to the public on a schedule.

Despite the various we remain committed to preserving the legacy of this beautiful building. Today, only a fraction of the original area remains, but the enchanting mystique of Villa Frere is still palpable and holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With our ongoing dedication and the collective efforts of all involved, we hope to safeguard this historical gem for generations to come.

The significance of this heritage site goes beyond its physical structures and gardens; it represents a tangible link to the past, to the birth of our Maltese language, connecting us to the rich cultural, intellectual, and artistic history of Malta.

By investing in the restoration and conservation of Villa Frere, we are not only safeguarding a physical place but also protecting the intangible essence of its historical importance. This includes the stories of the remarkable individuals who once graced its halls, the intellectual discussions that took place within its serene gardens, and the contributions it made to the cultural landscape of Malta.

Preserving Villa Frere is an endeavor that transcends time. It is about instilling a sense of pride and identity in the present generation and passing down a treasure trove of history and cultural heritage to the generations that follow. It is through this preservation that we can ensure that future Maltese citizens and visitors can continue to learn from, be inspired by, and appreciate the legacy of Villa Frere.

The collective efforts of various stakeholders are essential to the success of this endeavor. The collaboration between government bodies such as Heritage Malta and passionate organizations like Friends of Villa Frere creates a powerful force for change and conservation. By working together, we can pool our expertise, resources, and passion, ensuring that the restoration efforts are effective and sustainable.

In the meantime I would like to say a huge thank you to the people who are doing so much to preserve the gardens of this amazing property.

 

Fort St Angelo Unveils Marker as Final Stop on the Camino Maltés

History and spirituality intertwine at Fort St Angelo as an important occasion unfolded earlier this week —the unveiling of a marker that signifies the final stop along the Camino Maltés. The Camino Maltés, marks a significant milestone in Malta's history, as it becomes a starting point for the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. This collaborative effort involving various local entities is a testament to the power of collective dedication and vision.

The Camino Maltés encompasses a 35-kilometer route within Malta, guiding pilgrims through awe-inspiring landscapes and historical sites. Starting at Saint Paul's Grotto in Rabat, the journey continues through Żejtun and concludes at Fort St Angelo in Birgu—a fortress steeped in the Knights of St John's legacy and significance. The maritime routes and strategic position of Fort St Angelo in the Grand Harbour make it an ideal home for this marker, connecting it to Birgu, the Three Cities, and Valletta.

Beyond the physical trek, the Camino Maltés is a soulful journey. Pilgrimages have long been revered for their ability to foster spiritual growth, self-discovery, and inner peace. The Camino Maltés embodies these timeless principles, drawing over 300 pilgrims from more than 15 countries within its first months of inception. It has become a bridge that unites people from diverse corners of the world, nurturing understanding, friendship, and a shared sense of purpose.

I am proud of Malta's newfound role in the Camino de Santiago. The marker placement at Fort St Angelo is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all those involved in making the Camino Maltés a reality.

This event calls upon us to embrace the spirit of pilgrimage in our own lives. Just as the Camino Maltés signifies a transformative journey, each of us embarks on a personal quest for meaning, purpose, and connection. This marker symbolizes life itself as a pilgrimage—a path of discovery and growth.

With the marker in place, I encourage everyone to walk the Camino Maltés and experience the beauty of Malta, discovering the profound impact of pilgrimage. As pilgrims from around the world venture forth, let us extend the warmth of Maltese hospitality, welcoming them with open hearts and minds.

We celebrate Malta's role in the Camino de Santiago and cherish the connections we make, the experiences we share, and the moments of growth and reflection that shape our souls. May this marker at Fort St Angelo stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those who seek to embark on the Camino Maltés, igniting the flame of pilgrimage in the hearts of generations to come.