During the year, various anniversaries are commemorated and last year was no exception.

The year 2010 had a special significance for the people of Casal Paola as a century before, it became a parish. But the laying of the foundation stone of the Parish Church under the title of Christ the King took place 23 years later. Various activities and even an exhibition were held to honour this great event.

However, while the names of different parish priests and the architect cropped up, the name of the person who was entrusted with the actual erection of this masterpiece was omitted. I’m referring to the foreman Gianni Baldacchino, who besides conducting the project was also its stone mason, the person who had the complete trust of the architect, Guze D’Amato, not only of this church but also of other major works.

Who hasn’t heard or seen the Rotunda of Mosta? But how many people know that two major roads in its locality honour not only the architect Gorg de Vasse but also its builder Mastru Anglu Gatt? Why can’t Casal Paola follow suit? So far the architect has got his merited due, but what about the builder?

In my opinion it’s appropriate here to give some details about him. Gianni Baldacchino was born in Zejtun on 16 January, 1906 and died on 5 February 1967. He married Katerina Degabriele and spent the rest of his life at his wife’s village place of Marsaxlokk. They had 10 children, but as was the norm then, only three survived into adulthood. Actually I’m the sole survivor as both my sisters have passed away.

I’ve got some photos showing different phases of the church façade. Anyone from the council or the church, who is interested, can contact me at 46, Marsaxlokk Road, Zejtun.

■ Joe Baldacchino

Zejtun