Verdala opens for annual appointment with public

President Eddie Fenech Adami greeted families who turned up at Verdala Palace, Buskett yesterday to view the centuries-old building, which was lit up by the June sun.

Some 150 people were taken around the palace during an open day before getting a chance to chat with the President, who was dressed casually and in a jovial mood.

Visitors could catch a glimpse of the restoration works which are uncovering the original frescos that adorn the palace's main hall.

Verdala Palace is normally open to the public only once a year. However, a spokesman for the President said another open day may be organised later this year in response to public demand.

Currently used to accommodate dignitaries who are guests of the government, the original building was constructed in 1588 by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar by order of the Grand Master Verdalle.

Subsequent Grand Masters embellished the castle and made it their favourite retreat. The main hall on the ground floor is covered with frescoes by F. Paladini exalting Grandmaster de Verdalle.

The castle was turned into a prison in 1800 after the French occupiers of the island surrendered to the British. After many years during which the palace was empty, it was used by various governors as their summer residence.

In 1982 the castle was converted to the official government guest house for visiting heads of state. A church dedicated to St Anthony the Abbot is situated in the grounds.