Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the summer residence of Bishop Don Baldassare Cagliares, situated close to ‘Wied l-Isqof’ limits of Buskett and Verdala Palace.

To my utter disappointment, the place turned out to be in a disastrous state of repair and totally abandoned! Such neglect is definitely unacceptable! This was the summer residence of our Maltese Bishop who worked so hard for our diocese. In return he received strong opposition from the Knights of the Order, Inquisitor and the Maltese Curia.

I was told that this summer residence, which has its own historical value, was once used as a fireworks factory!

Alongside this residence (built in the traditional Maltese style with a courtyard in the centre and various rooms surrounding it) there are other houses in the same pitiful condition. Moreover, one can also note the empty and blocked famous ‘well’ that played an important part in the story of Bishop Cagliares.

This summer residence of Bishop Cagliares is surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of one of the most beautiful green areas of our country.

I appeal to the authorities concerned to take care of this historical site. If we lose this summer residence of Bishop Cagliares, we would also be neglecting part of our history.

Peter Paul Ciantar

RABAT