A few days ago, I went to the Manoel Theatre Café for some refreshment, and afterwards wanted to go and visit the Manoel shop. Unfortunately, however, I was told the shop had been closed over 12 months ago due to a lack of support. This I found sad, as I had visited the shop on several occasions on previous visits to Malta and admired the beautiful prints and books on opera subjects. I had even purchased a complete Murano glass collection of miniature musicians with instruments. In addition to the above, I am sorry to learn that even 10 years after the rebuilding of the derelict Opera House was proposed, and despite plans for this having been drawn up and I believe approved, the situation remains unsolved to date.

Of course this would require a multimillion euro backing from the EU, and in these difficult financial times, some would say the money would be better used to improve transport and social conditions in Malta. Fair point, but surely a World Heritage City like Valletta deserves a cultural centre that would not only attract an influential international following but also a rejuvenated and elegant shopping and hotel complex which is very much needed for a capital city. This, surely, would make Valletta a Jewel of the Mediterranean and the Knights that defended Malta against the Turks would be proud of it.