I recently returned to Gozo after a 10-year absence. It was wonderful to be back, but so sad to see the devastation being wrought on some of the old heritage buildings on the island.

I love the regeneration of St George’s Square in Victoria that is being done in such a manner that it retains all the charm of old Gozo.

On the other side of the spectrum is a beautiful 19th century house with a garden and a lovely ornamental gate, which I always admired, in St Anthony Street, Għajnsielem.

When I went to look at St Anthony Street again on my recent visit, it was to see this heritage site being demolished piece by piece.

A nasty wall has been erected where the ornamental gate once stood (presumably to hide the devastation being enacted behind it); the windows have already gone and some of the balconies have been pulled down.

I suppose the last act will take place and the whole house will disappear and flats will be built on the site.

What a tragedy this is to the heritage of Gozo and I think someone who is in authority should act now before this house is totally lost.

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