Mattia Preti's old house in Valletta is to be leased out, renovated and put to use government announced today.

Parliamentary Secretary Michael Falzon and Parliamentary Secretary Jose Herrera announced that a tender will be issued on Monday, however will not specify the use of the building, allowing "creative people" to submit applications.

The two Storey house is currently in a dilapidated state, the Parliamentary Secretaries explained, and thus the lease will be for 65 years.

They described Mattia Preti as one of the most famous Baroque artists to have come to the Maltese islands.

The Parliamentary Secretaries spoke of the economic potential as well as the cultural heritage of the site.

Photos: Jonathan Borg