In January of 1954, as I approached my eighth birthday, my family (father, mother and younger brother) immigrated to London, England. With me, I took three principal dreams – playing football (of course), accompanying my father on his boat for fishing trips, and visiting San Anton Gardens.
(photo from www.yoursundayguide.com)
Why the Gardens? In those days public gardens were virtually unknown in Malta and Gozo. The islands were clusters of closely knit towns and villages with rows and rows of houses, although some had a little central square.
It was unheard of that a common man would have a garden or yards with potted plants. Gardens were for the rich, titled, and privileged. There was also no environmental awareness or even a clue that enjoying open spaces was a path to better living. The only “open spaces” were strictly guarded agricultural fields and unused or neglected lands for dumping refuse and rubbish.
Which is why San Anton Gardens were so special to me. Four or five times a year, my mother took my brother and me to visit Malta’s only public garden to enjoy the colour and greenery of the environment, languish in the vast open space, and walk and run freely on the pathways.
Being in London and elsewhere in England opened new vistas as most houses had gardens, and there were free green parks everywhere where a boy could kick a football, run, jump, shout and scream. I missed the sea, of course, but there were rivers and swimming pools.
(photo from Frank Vincentz – CC BY-SA 3.0)
Now I live back in Malta, and public gardens are numerous. But the San Anton Gardens still hold a place in my heart. Memories came flooding back recently with the announcement of an extensive restoration, conservation, and maintenance planned for the gardens, which will conserve the architecture, safeguard the integrity of the gardens, and ensure a beautiful and secure environment for future generations of visitors and young children to run free as I did in this exceptional setting.
While most people come to Malta to lounge on our beautiful beaches, the serene San Anton Gardens remain one of its most precious gems.
Visiting Malta’s San Anton Gardens
The San Anton Gardens is found in Attard, a quiet area between Mdina and Valletta, and is one of the most beautiful public gardens in Malta, with multiple pathways that meander through almost 40,000 square metres of trees (some 300 years old) from around the world, flowering bushes, rare orchids and roses, verdant plants, and vines. Visitors will also find shaded benches, ponds with ducks and swans, sculptures and ornamental fountains, such as Eagle Fountain, dating from the 1620s.
(photo from Kikku33 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0)
The gardens surround San Anton Palace which served as the residence of the Grand Masters and was expanded over the years. It later housed the Civil Commissioners, Governors, and Governors-General of Malta, but since 1974 has been the official residence of the Maltese President.
In summer, the vast central courtyard transforms into an open-air theatre for drama and musical performances and hosts the annual Horticultural Show.
The gardens are open every day from 7 a.m., and closing times vary by season, usually 7:45 p.m. in summer and 5 p.m. in winter.
(photo from https://mymalta.guide)
History
The site was San Anton Palace used by the Grandmasters of the Order of St John as their summer residence, located in central Malta an removed from the coasts, which were always subject to bombardment.
In the early 17th century, Grandmaster Antoine de Paule decided to complement the grand residence with a large garden, which he populated with exotic trees, plants and bushes, fountains and pools, peacocks and other birds.
When the Knights departed and were replaced by the British in the early 19th century, Admiral Sir Alexander Ball opened the gardens to the general public in 1882. They have been subsequently enhanced and upgraded by successive governors.
In recent years San Anton Gardens have become an attractive venue for floral exhibitions and musical events.
(photo from Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0)
Current Renovations
A current rehabilitation project is underway which will include plant and flower bushes, structures, walls, benches and passageways. The works will be carried out in phases, allowing the public access to enjoy the gardens in certain areas, while zones under restoration will be restricted.
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BeSeeingYou In: San Anton Gardens, Malta
Good To Know: There is frequent bus service from Valletta and ample parking
WOW! Factor: Look closely—San Anton Palace was the exterior of the Red Keep in King’s Landing in the hit show Game of Thrones
Tip: The gardens are within walking distance of the Five-Star Corinthia Palace Hotel, as well as the Melita and Rickshaw bars and restaurants.
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Author bio: Albert Fenech
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