Restoration unearths notable relics

Several important relics have come to light as a result of the restoration of the forecourt of Vilhena Palace in Mdina.

Documentary details of the entrance were found by Prof. Denis De Lucca in 1974 during his research which was subsequently published in his book "Mdina - a history of its urban space and architecture".

However, the relics were only seen recently during professional excavation works being supervised by Mdina Rehabilitation Committee coordinator Ray Bondin and under the direction of committee chairman Prof. De Lucca.

"The research gave us a clear idea of what lay underneath," Prof. De Lucca said in an interview.

The palace was designed for Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena in 1725 by Parisian architect Charles Francois de Mondion in typical French baroque style.

Mondion was a military engineer who arrived in Malta in 1715. He had excellent credentials, having trained under the personal guidance of the great French military engineer, Vauban.

"His forecourt in Mdina represents the epitome of the dramatic qualities and theatricality associated with baroque scenarios in 17th and 18th century Europe," Prof. De Lucca said.

Because of the importance of the forecourt, Prof. De Lucca has given instructions for the excavated relics to remain visible by surrounding the location with railings.

Prof. De Lucca said the relics would eventually be covered with glass and illuminated.

Going into detail about the relics, Prof. De Lucca said this older bent entrance to Mdina consisted of two corridor-like spaces and a small square.

The entrance was, according to an old manuscript, demolished by Mondion to make room for the magnificent forecourt of Vilhena's new place which also entailed the rebuilding of the Torre dello Standardo in its present position.