Built after World War II, these modernist style buildings from the 1940s to 1960s have finally come under the jurisdiction of Malta’s planning authorities

Twenty-eight iconic structures and monuments around Malta, mainly built during the modernist phase, have come under the protective arm of the planning authority.

Characterised by clean lines and functionality, modernist architecture has little or no ornamentation and attempts to provide for specific needs rather than imitate nature.

Built after World War II, modernistbuildings met the industry’s growing needs and provided clear, simple structures for housing.

Clear and unique local examples can be found in the Farson’s brewery in Mrieħel and Muscat’s Motors Showroom in Msida, which were built between the 1940s and 1960s, Heritage Planning Unit official René Attard explained.

There was a great demand to replace the buildings destroyed in the war, he said.

Mount St Joseph in Mosta, built in the 1960s, was one of the best complete examples of local modernist architecture as architect Carmelo Falzon even styled the interior – including the staircase and internal doors – with the design, Mr Attard added.

Also on the scheduled list are a number of University buildings, including Student House, the architecture department, the chapel and the covered walkways – all examples of modernist architecture.

The authority also scheduled 48 windmills and five granaries, including the ones at Floriana, which are often used for large, open-air events such as the famous Isle of MTV concerts.