The shameful state of Addolorata Cemetery

I read the feature by Christian Attard (The Sunday Times, May 4) about Italian Consul Cav. Angelo Alberici mentioning the funerary monument over his grave at the Addolorata Cemetery.

Mr Attard rightly concluded by drawing attention to the need of urgent intervention. While endorsing this important need of restoration I refer to another no less important bronze monument on the grave of Avello Micali, some metres away on the left-hand rear side of the main chapel.

This is one of the most beautiful sculptures at the cemetery. Poetically worded effigies appear on the marble base and it is surrounded by a most elegant and artistic Art Nouveau wrought iron railing of exquisite design. The state of this grave is an absolute disgrace. As, I presume, the family no longer exists; such heritage should be preserved by the State or delegated to an organisation. Its surroundings are shameful. There is a gallon steel drum plonked by its side and weeds growing freely all over the place.

Unfortunately this is not the only derelict site. The whole cemetery seems to be abandoned.

The place is never swept, and overflowing bins are seldom emptied. The stonework of the monumental entrance, main chapel and lovely pathways needs urgent attention. It is sad that there is no feeling for the preservation of things beautiful in our country. An example is the design of the central main gate which had once been changed from its Gothic style to a modern design.

This is all the more evident as the smaller gates on each of its side are the original ones.

It is as though the cemetery does not merit attention because it is a place for the dead.

If the situation is remedied, it would be a sign of respect to our dear departed and a feather in the cap of the authority which takes the initiative.