Tuesday 30 March 2021
I cannot remember the last time that I did a 'Life lately' post. Each day merges into the other and there's not much to share. Here in Malta we are exactly in the same place we were one year ago, with all but the most essential businesses and services closed. I am not complaining - just stating facts. Easter is in a few days and, once again, it will be a muted celebration, although, unlike last year, up to two families at a time can gather together. It seems like the more things change the more they remain the same. A part of my mind still can't quite accept the fact that we're in 2021. It's like a whole year has been erased, probably because most of us made no new memories or experiences in 2020. But I think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Highlights
Gardening
Reading
Easy recipes
Easter Dessert
Tuesday 16 March 2021
On a bright but breezy Saturday at the end of January, my husband and I drove to Isla to take some photos of this town that we rarely visit. Isla (also known as Senglea) is a maritime town that is Malta's smallest locality and the second most densely populated area on the island. It is located on a long and narrow strip of land that juts out into Grand Harbour and points, like an accusing finger, at Valletta. Entrance to Isla is through Senglea Gate. The town has around 4 streets along its length that are criss-crossed by a number of smaller roads. Located at the tip of Isla is a small garden that has magnificent views of Grand Harbour, Valletta and neighbouring Birgu. Isla came under heavy bombardment during the Second World War due to its proximity to the docks. On 16th January 1941, a blitz by the Luftwaffe on HMS Illustrious left around twenty people dead and devastated many of the town's buildings. As a result, Isla is made up of pre-war era buildings, some of then dating back to the late 1500s, and a large proportion, including the parish church, that were rebuilt after the war.
So, after that short introduction, let's take a walk around Isla.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Nativity, that was re-inaugurated in 1957, is just a few paces away from Senglea Gate.
To the right of the small square, side streets overlook the Vittoriosa Yacht Marina and Birgu.
The Church of St Philip, dating to 1690, is located at the end of the main thoroughfare, Victory Street.
A road to the right of this small church leads to the Gardjola Gardens.
The main attraction of Gardjola Gardens is the breath-taking view of the natural harbour that made Malta such a sought-after location from antiquity.
To the left of the garden exti is a short light of steps leading to two small tunnels . This is probably the most iconic area in all of Isla.
I mean, who wouldn't want to wake up to this view?
I hope you enjoyed this little tour but, before ending, I wanted to share Isla's most quirky and colourful street.
It looks like mermaids might live here. What do you think?
Tuesday 2 March 2021
Darkness At Noon was the name of a collective exhibition held at The Splendid in Valletta between February 6th and 24th. I was able to attend on the very last day. Crossing the threshold of The Splendid had been on my bucket list for years and, last Wednesday, I was finally able to do so.