It should be noted that various institutions have given due attention to developments on this site, for a number of years. The Museums Department and its successor, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, have been committed to ensuring that any significant architectural remains, or archaeological remains on the site would be adequately protected. Officials of the Museums Department first inspected the site in 1998. The Museums Department had made recommendations for the protection of one particular historical structure and the department had subsequently monitored works on site. No archaeological features were exposed during these works.

In 2003, a new application for the construction of a swimming pool was received by MEPA. Officials of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage inspected the site again, following a request for consultation by MEPA.

The inspection reconfirmed that no archaeological features were visible on site. According to the application, the swimming pool was to be constructed above the existing soil surface, and no excavation was to be undertaken. Given these considerations, the Superintendence did not object to the proposed development. A recent inspection of the site by the Superintendence has confirmed that work was undertaken according to this MEPA permit. The swimming pool has been constructed on a raised concrete platform to avoid any excavation. The inspection confirmed that no archaeological remains were visible as a result of this precautionary measure. All the right measures were taken to ensure that no damage could be caused to any antiquities that might be on the site.

Such procedures have been successfully applied to many other properties in the Mdina/Rabat area, where similar concerns exist. This has resulted in the protection and preservation of numerous sites of archaeological importance.

Anthony Pace

Superintendent of Cultural Heritage