Extensive restoration works on San Anton Gardens were announced by Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia. This project, which will be led by the ministry and includes works by GreenServ and Ambjent Malta, will focus on the restoration and structural repairs of the garden walls, pathways, and other historical features, such as fountains and benches. Through this project, these gardens will be made safer for families to enjoy, the ministry said.

These gardens which form part of San Anton Palace were extended by Grand Master Antoine De Paule in 1623. The project aims to address the damage sustained throughout the years.

Minister Farrugia said that this garden needed immediate intervention so that families and tourists can continue enjoying the site. In fact, works started immediately on the collapsed walls next to the entrance, which are now almost complete. He said that work to obtain the necessary permits is ongoing so that a call for tenders can be issued later on this year.

WasteServ CEO Richard Bilocca explained how the interventions that will be carried out by GreenServ will be complementing the historical and cultural character of this garden. He said that these works will consist of detailed research and surveys of the garden, mapping of the structural interventions required, the issuing of tenders and execution of works.

Ambjent Malta Director General Herman Galea said that Ambjent Malta has been conducting several works to upgrade San Anton Gardens since October of 2021, and as such it has invested €175,885 to date for the reinstatement of two collapsed wall sections, conducting electrical works, upgrading the stone benches and conducting masonry works, as well as installation and restoration of wooden benches and bins. Moreover, it also conducted interventions on the protective metal iron structures surrounding the fountains and the existing features. 

Furthermore, San Anton Gardens’ landscaping is currently maintained through an agreement with the Environmental Landscaping Consortium. 

Over the years, many distinguished guests have stayed at San Anton Palace and enjoyed its gardens. Their stay was commemorated by a number of ancient and rare trees, which can be enjoyed by the public to this day.