The planning authority’s Environment and Planning Commission has approved planning permission for the extension and development of 2,280 new graves at the Addolorata Cemetery, limits of Luqa.

The site of the new extension, located in an area known as Tal-Ħorr, abuts the existing cemetery at the southern flank and has for years has been subject to extensive dumping.

Due to the historical and architectural importance of the Addolorata cemetery, the design of the new extension will include the original semi-circular plaza as designed by architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia. This design will not only compliment but promotes continuity within the cemetery. To maximise the burial space, the graves have been designed to consist of four tiers with an ossuary below.

Integral to the extension project is a landscaping scheme, which will see the introduction of various tree species to compliment those already existing within the current cemetery. Over 55 additional car parking spaces will be provided for along the road leading to the cemetery.

The Addolorata cemetery came about following the approval from the local ecclesiastical authorities for the council of government to construct a public cemetery and abolish the burial of persons within churches.

The governor appointed architect Galizia whose design brief included most of all the strategic location of a chapel within the cemetery. Architect Galizia carried out extensive architectural studies on existent cemeteries in Italy, France and England. Described by the press as one of the finest burying places in Europe, the Neo-Gothic style new church and cemetery were consecrated on May 9, 1869.