The Opera House in Valletta keeps its theatre status

The most visible World War Two bomb site in Europe is getting a makeover

The once grand Victorian Opera House at the entrance to Malta's ancient capital city was devastated by enemy bombers in April 1942.

For almost 70 years the site has remained gutted as arguments rage over its future. Since the end of the war generations of politicians, architects and members of the public have been debating the fate of the ruins.

At the end of 2008 Malta's Prime Minister, Dr. Lawrence Gonzi proclaimed to a bemused electorate that the site would not retain its status as a place of theatre - instead it would become the new place for the parliamentary building. The Prime Minister stated that Valletta was  "saturated" with theatre. For many this seemed a 'done deal'. The reaction to these statements was a resounding feeling against the vision of the Prime Minister. Thousands joined a Facebook 'group' opposing the proposals, many within and outside Malta followed this site as contributions and editorials grew daily.

Then in June 2009 the Prime Minister's decision was reversed and it was decided that theatre would return. It was the world famous architect Renzo Piano who was employed to develop new plans. And it was he who (according to reports) persuaded the Prime Minister to have theatre reinstated. Talking to The Times of Malta, Renzo Piano said "we don't steal that noble function that is cultural", "I think this is going to be one of the most magic places in the Mediterranean", "I think it would have been a big mistake not to have it (a theatre) there" 

This website looks at the history, the recent controversy and now follows the reinstalling of theatre on this famous and troubled site.

(above right: The original Opera House before it was destroyed by fire in 1873, above left: the planned new theatre). right: Malta's Prime Minister, Dr. Lawrence Gonzi (left) with architect Renzo Piano at the launch of the Valletta redevelopment plans, 27 June 2009)

The redevelopment of the Opera House bomb site forms part of a larger plan to rebuild City Gate and other important areas of the ancient city of Valletta.

The new building is not to everyone's taste. Indeed the design is subject to extensive controversy in Malta and beyond. But controversy surrounding this tired old bomb site has been part of it's history from the night the bombs fell. The new building will be interesting on many levels. The 'Royal' status now a thing of the past as Malta has been independent from Britain since 1964.

Will this building hold 'national theatre' status?

Will this become 'The Malta National Theatre'?

Will this new building retain the reputation of its previous incarnation and draw in the wide-ranging Maltese talent as well as performances and performers from the international stage?

Such plans would bring much to the nation and to the ancient Maltese capital city.

The controversy to reinstate theatre is over - now we will follow the story of the Opera House as it enters a new and exciting phase in its troubled life. We also look back to the history of The Opera House before fire ruined the original theatre in 1873 and enemy bombers destroyed it in 1942.

You can read a lot more about about Valletta ("the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen") here. City of Valletta says "Valletta, Malta’s capital and a World Heritage site, is nothing short of an open-air museum. It is a living experience of Baroque architecture, a monument donated by the Knights of St John nearly five centuries ago. Throughout the years, Valletta has welcomed emperors, heads of state, artists and poets and is now the permanent seat of the Maltese government".