For many years, the south of Malta has been given the cold shoulder, but times are changing and harmful stereotypes are finally being knocked off. Under the circumstances, this is the ideal time to get your hand on a property in the area.
A cultural zone
Heritage sites such as Ħaġar Qim and Imnajdra temples, the caves of Għar Ħasan and Għar Dalam, as well as the San Luċjan and San Tumas towers, are all located in peaceful, authentic areas that bring the best out of them, with no infrastructural intrusions that come their way seeking attention.
Furthermore, recent res-torations on Fort St Angelo have once again opened access to an extraordinary view of eastern Valletta, besides having made another cultural site in the southern region accessible to the public. In fact, Fort St Angelo served as a retreat for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2015, proof that the region too can have its moments of glory.
An authentic Maltese character
Villages such as Marsaxlokk, known for its longstanding tradition of fishing, and Marsascala and Żurrieq, with their colourful and picturesque promenades, have managed to preserve that genuine Maltese spirit apparently lost in other regions. The Blue Grotto, Wied Babu and Bengħajsa, with their typical fusion of marine and rural traits, all qualify for drawing the attention of tourists and locals who are passionate about getting to know more of the genuine Malta.
Clean waters
Some of the most sought-after beaches in Malta are in the south, and St Peter’s Pool and St Thomas Bay top the list. The azure-like waters, flat rocky ground and circular shady structure that characterise St Peter’s Pool offer excellent opportunities for snorkellers and bathers alike, and the area has lately soared to fame as a result of countless media capturing the Jack Russell terrier’s synchronised dive with its master into the majestic seas at the tip of Delimara. Furthermore, St Thomas Bay, just some 900m away from Marsascala’s centre, is suitable for the whole family while still generating windsurfing activity.
Investment
The refurbishment on the shores lining Cottonera in 2014 has made the zone most prominent for recreation, with benches and greener spots that encourage a relaxing atmosphere, attracting both locals and foreigners alike. The region is no longer an underdeveloped one, with plans for the American University of Malta – having shared campuses in Marsascala and Cospicua, giving it a social, economic and infrastructural boost. Furthermore, the enforcement notice issued by the Planning Authority to finally demolish the neglected Jerma Palace Hotel this August has now spared the residents further concerns on a forgotten construction site in state of disrepair.
A night hub
The regeneration of the Cottonera waterfront and the construction of Smart City have proven to be a major boost for commercial activity. Hundreds of visitors are now flooding the localities on a daily basis to unwind at one of the restaurants and bars looking upon the shoreline. Supplementary to such investment is the wide popularity still enjoyed by the bustling Pretty Bay and Marsascala Bay, both welcoming families and couples for a stroll or a quiet meal on breezy terraces.
Choice
The southern region is currently brimming with all sorts of property, ranging from unconverted houses of character and farmhouses to lavish apartments and seaside terraced houses. Properties with large gardens or huge developments with central piazzas, communal pools and underground parking are no longer alien to the area. You are definitely spoilt for choice, and at a good price too.
Mr Zahra is content manager and editor of Coldwell Banker Malta.