PJAZZA TEATRU RJAL
VALLETTA’S ENDURING CULTURAL LANDMARK Valletta’s Pj a z z a Te a tr u R j a l i s k n own a cro s s Ma lt a f o r it s w e a lt h o f o p e n -a ir c o n c e r t s a n d f o r ho s t i n g s ome of the co u n tr y’s m os t p re s ti g i ou s a nd w e ll-k now n mu s ic a l eve n t s . We exa mine t h e h is t o r y o f th i s re m a r k a b l e b u i l d i n g , a n d h ow it b e c a me t h e u n iq ue c u lt ura l e d if ic e it is t o d a y
Word s by Ja m e s C umming s
Walking through the main gates of Malta’s capital, various
mystique luring tourists and locals alike to peer between its
interesting and varied architectural sights draw one’s attention as
majestic pillars at the remarkable open-air performance space
the city comes into view. An arched, idiosyncratically designed
beyond.
structure housing shops and cafes lines the left side of the street, whilst the bold modernist parliament building on the right side hungrily demands attention, its brutalist and tactile façade standing in stark contrast — yet, somehow in keeping — with the city’s otherwise consistent aesthetic. It is the large proud Corinthian structure standing forward and to the right, however, that holds one's gaze, it’s stunning beauty and inviting Hellenistic
22 OH MY MALTA Photo: Paul Herrera
Pjazza Teatru Rjal was opened in 1866, and designed by the renowned British architect Edward Middleton Barry, a leading figure in 19th century Britain who, amongst his many projects, is credited with London’s Covent Garden Opera House and adjacent glass and iron-framed Floral Hall. Built in a classical style — utilising symmetry and prominent use of pillars — and known at the time as the Royal Opera House or Royal Theatre,
