Rebuild the clock tower
I read with interest what Anthony Pace wrote on urban archaeology (January 26). That article is proof that we are now witnessing a resurgence of interest in this country's historical heritage in spite of the indifference that marks a large section of...
I read with interest what Anthony Pace wrote on urban archaeology (January 26). That article is proof that we are now witnessing a resurgence of interest in this country's historical heritage in spite of the indifference that marks a large section of our contemporary society. We all know how much we lost to enemy action, to vandalism and downright inertia.
The old clock tower in Vittoriosa is a case in point. It was largely destroyed during the last war and what was left of it was pulled down. There are still some of those who think that having a larger square with more parking space is better than having the old clock tower. Fortunately, people with a better standard of culture seem to be coming to the fore. That augurs well not only for Vittoriosa but for the country as well.
The excavations that are being carried out in Vittoriosa Square have shown tangible links with the past. What we now need is to rebuild what was lost so that the links with our history will be better preserved. We should emulate the example shown by other countries. Poland is a case in point. The historic centre of Warsaw was ruined by invading armies but has been lovingly restored.
Objections to the rebuilding of the clock tower need not be taken seriously. Some say there is no practical use for it now. Perhaps they prefer their digital watches. If we keep only what we have use for then perhaps we should bulldoze what our ancestors left us, starting with the neolithic temples right up to the fortifications built by the Knights.
Others will say that a new clock tower will not be the same as the old one. That is unfortunately true but a replica of the original building would be the best substitute. The Italians rebuilt the campanile of San Marco soon after it collapsed and they reconstructed most of their old buildings, which were destroyed either by bombs or by earth tremors.
Finally, may I urge all those who have the history of Malta and that of the old town of Vittoriosa at heart to pledge their support to the appeal to see a replica of the old clock tower dominate the aptly named Victory Square in Vittoriosa.