Palazzina Vincenti must be upgraded to the highest grade of protection, environmental activists said in a press conference on Monday.

Palazzina Vincenti is a unique architectural gem located in St. Julian’s known for its modernist architecture and historical significance. The Palazzina was designed in 1948 by renowned architect Gustave R. Vincenti, architect of Vincenti Buildings in Valletta and several other notable buildings, to be his private residence.

“The building stands as a testament to visionary architecture that defined an era; its design, authorship, historical and landscape context make it an irreplaceable element of Malta’s architectural legacy,” the NGO Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar said.

However, despite its cultural and historical significance, Palazzina Vincenti is currently under threat due to a proposal to construct a 13-storey hotel above and adjacent to this heritage site which will compromise its architectural integrity and historical context, the NGO said.

“Scheduled buildings must not be altered in ways that permanently affect their structure or appearance, yet this project proposes to introduce large columns to support the additional floors and demolish the unique, reinforced concrete ceiling enriched with architectural decoration that contributes significantly to the palazzo’s character and must be preserved fully as part of the historical fabric of Palazzina Vincenti,” the NGO added.

“Currently, Palazzina Vincenti holds a Grade 2 protection status, which is insufficient to adequately safeguard its intrinsic heritage value and historical importance. The existing Grade 2 status allows for alterations which could irreversibly alter its unique features and erode its historical significance,” it said.

“Upgrading its status to Grade 1 protection is crucial to ensure that this architectural treasure is preserved for future generations to admire and appreciate, allowing for sensitive repurposing which will not ruin its integrity,” it added.

The NGO called on the Planning Authority, Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and relevant stakeholders to recognise the importance of Palazzina Vincenti by upgrading its protection status to Grade 1.

“By doing so, we ensure it remains a cherished part of our architectural and cultural heritage,” it said.

The NGO also called for the immediate issuing of Emergency Conservation Order for Palazzina Vincenti and subsequent upgrading from Grade 2 to Grade 1 protection, recognising its exceptional architectural and historical significance.

It further called for the internal areas of the neighbouring houses designed by Perit Vincenti be designated Grade 2 protection, in recognition of their architectural significance and their integral relationship with Palazzina Vincenti. 

“We therefore urge the Maltese Authorities to act decisively and without delay to ensure that Palazzina Vincenti receives the level of protection its significance deserves. As an outstanding exemplar of its period, Palazzina Vincenti is as important as any other Medieval, Baroque and Neo-Classical palace in Malta,” it said.

“Let us safeguard Malta’s architectural heritage and ensure that Palazzina Vincenti remains a protected and enduring part of our national cultural legacy.”