NGO Condemns Qawra Catacombs Threat
Seven-storey Tombstone: NGO Sounds Alarm on Qawra Development
Picture this: A seven-storey building looming over the ancient catacombs of St. Paul’s and St. Agatha in Qawra. This isn’t a scene from a dystopian film, but a reality that could soon unfold if a proposed development gets the green light. The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has received an application for a permit to construct a seven-storey building just metres away from the historic site.
A Shadow Over History
The catacombs, dating back to the Roman period, are a significant part of Malta’s cultural heritage. They’ve witnessed centuries of history, from Roman rule to the Knights of St. John. Now, they face an rare threat – a modern-day ‘tombstone’ that could cast a long shadow over their future. The proposed building, a mere 15 metres away, could potentially compromise the structural integrity of the catacombs and block out natural light, crucial for their preservation.
NGO: A Slap in the Face of Heritage
The Qawra Development has sparked outrage among local NGOs and heritage enthusiasts. Flimkien Għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA), a leading environmental NGO, has condemned the project, describing it as “a slap in the face of Malta’s rich cultural heritage.” The group has called for the immediate withdrawal of the permit application, arguing that the development is in direct contravention of the Planning Authority’s own policies on heritage protection.
“This is not just about preserving a piece of history,” says Dr. Marc Attard, a heritage consultant and FAA member. “It’s about sending a clear message that Malta’s cultural heritage is non-negotiable. We cannot allow short-sighted development to compromise our past for the sake of a few extra euros.”
MEPA has received numerous objections to the project, with many residents and visitors expressing concern about the impact on the catacombs and the character of Qawra. The area, known for its quiet, residential streets and proximity to the sea, could see a significant shift with the introduction of a seven-storey building.
The Fight to Preserve Qawra’s Past
FAA is not alone in its fight to protect the catacombs. The Qawra Residents’ Association has also weighed in, warning that the development could set a dangerous precedent for the area. “If we allow this, what’s to stop other developers from following suit?” asks Joe Xuereb, the association’s chairperson. “We stand to lose more than just a piece of history. We stand to lose the very character of Qawra.”
The battle to save the catacombs is far from over. MEPA is expected to make a decision on the permit application in the coming months. In the meantime, FAA and other stakeholders are rallying support, encouraging the public to make their voices heard.
“This is a fight for our past, our present, and our future,” says Dr. Attard. “We cannot let Malta’s rich cultural heritage become a casualty of shortsighted development. We urge everyone to join us in saying ‘No’ to this project.”
You can sign the petition to save the catacombs at change.org. For more information, visit FAA’s Facebook page or contact them directly.
