The Locality
A small locality with an extensive history.
Situated in the eastern region of Malta, Kalkara stands as a small fishing village at the mouth of the Grand Harbour and consists of two peninsulas, that of Ricasoli and Bighi. The former took the name of Fort Ricasoli, which was constructed in the 17th century to guard the entrance of the Grand Harbour in line with Fort St. Elmo at the tip of Valletta. Prior to the construction of Fort Ricasoli, the peninsula was referred to as ‘Punta delle Forche’ or ‘Gallow’s Point’ since it was here where pirates, corsairs or rebels against the Order of St. John were executed and displayed as a message of deterrence. The other peninsula is today known as ‘Bighi Peninsula’, however, historically, this area was referred to as ‘San Salvatore’ or ‘Tas-Salvatur’, after the chapel dedicated to Our Saviour which is located in the vicinity and traces its history back to at least the 15th century. On either side of this peninsula are two bays which are l-Rnella bay to the north and Kalkara bay to the south.
A blow up of a map of the Grand Harbour, featuring Kalkara with its two bays and numerous private gardens.
An aerial photograph of Bighi Peninsula taken in the 1950s.
Countryside residences and gardens
Many merchant businessmen, nobles and other wealthy individuals sought countryside homes to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. These rural retreats offered a peaceful alternative to the crowded and often hectic city environment, allowing residents to enjoy fresh air, open space, and a slower pace of life. Moving away from the city provided a welcome contrast, where individuals and families could reconnect with nature and find solace away from the daily stresses of urban living. Whilst the most wealthy constructed palaces, such as Selmun Palace in Mellieħa, Spinola Palace in St. Julian’s or even Villa Bichi in Kalkara, others looked towards acquiring simple farmhouses with a few rooms. Whether a palace, villa, or small house, many of these countryside residences shared the common concept of having a private garden for recreational use. Before the establishment of the naval hospital at Bighi, Kalkara was divided into two communities: a local fishing community centered around Kalkara Bay, and a group of country residences owned by people seeking a quieter environment away from the urban areas.
This changed, however, once the Admiralty set up a Royal Naval Hospital at Bighi and began consolidating control over the Grand Harbour throughout the 19th and early 20th century. Apart from the increased presence of naval personnel, any construction or enlargement of buildings near naval property required approval from the naval authorities. Thus, anyone wishing to build a new residence in Kalkara faced a bureaucratic obstacle that was the Admiralty.