Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna has registered an online objection to the proposed development of an industrial complex right next to the 19th century Ottoman Cemetery in Marsa.
The planning application is for the "demolition of existing structure and construction of industrial garage"
The Foundation argues that the Ottoman Cemetery is an important architectural and historical monument, product of the celebrated Maltese 19th century architect and civil engineer Emanuele Luigi Galizia.
The NGO argued that its architectural style and characteristics are unique in Malta. "When originally designed it was meant to stand in isolation surrounded by open country and not buildings. Engulfing this important and exquisite monument by a an abutting industrial complex will demean its holy nature and will obscure it from the side."
Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna concludes that the site being considered for development is an old mistake which ought not to be repeated. "Instead, the opportunity should be taken to demolish the existing structures and clear it out to restore as soft landscaped to complement the adjacent row of cemeteries - the Jewish and the Ottoman ones."