13th century Wardija palazzo approved for restoration
Restoration and rehabilitation works also include the chapel, garden and pool
A 13th-century palazzo in Wardija has been approved for restoration and rehabilitation by the Planning Commission.
Palazzo Gherxija, located deep within the fields of Wardija on Triq Wied Qannotta, will be restored together with its surrounding garden, a pool, garage and chapel.
The Wied Qanotta Chapel, just a few metres from the palazzo, dates back to the 16th century and was commissioned by the noble Garzia Monpalao.
The Wied Qanotta Chapel taken over by nature Photo: Matthew MirabelliIt is now overrun with greenery and in a state of neglect.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage noted that the “site comprises a significant vernacular palazzo and a barrel-vaulted chapel, both of considerable antiquity and high cultural heritage value.”
The palazzo is in a deteriorated condition, with sections of stonework appearing unstable and vegetation encroaching on parts of the structure.
Palazzo Gherxija in Wardija Photo: Matthew Mirabelli
The side of the palazzo Photo: Matthew Mirabelli
The proposed works include reinstating the internal mezzanine and carrying out interventions on the staircase. Should the staircase need to be replaced, the new structure will have to match the configuration of the original. The plans also include converting a balcony into a French window.
Beyond the palazzo itself, the application covers works on the garage on the opposite side of the road, upgrades to the garden and pool area and the reconstruction of an agricultural store.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage noted that the Planning Commission may wish to impose a €7,000 bank guarantee covering the proposed alterations and the property’s general restoration. However, the commission did not confirm the guarantee during Wednesday’s meeting.
The application was approved unanimously, with no objectors present.
The decision follows the Planning Authority’s approval of an outline development permit in 2024 under planning application PA/07101/22.
The property is also advertised on several property websites, including one listing it for €7 million.
Several of the property listings describe the site as covering 6,745 square metres and having five bedrooms.