Architectural Sequence: #8, Old Mint Street, Valetta, Malta. The Basement.

The building was built around 1620 and used for residential purposes. It was always in the possession of the Central Government and prior to that was in the possession of the Knights of the Order of St. John.

As "the different methods of construction adopted at the lower levels indicate that the

building might have been constructed at different periods of time."

Further record also showed that the building was split up into a number of different tenements.From 1941 to 1961 the property was repaired the damage caused during World War II as well as any other damage that had accumulated over the years.

(source from: NUMBER 8, Institute for Masonry and Construction Research; Siying Que, 2010)

The ancient basement was a discovery. It hasn't been touched for few centuries and kept its original fascinating beauty. It has most probably been used as a laundry space. I must say, it truly is an amazing space. Its broken symmetry and irregularity, together with tall arches and 'magical' skylights bring the viewer back to the times when it has been built. The time has made only few little changes to the surfaces of the limestone, that the basement is made out of. But the rust and the moss add even more character to this ancient 'treasure'.  I have found the unity of the cladding material and the internal 'furniture' absolutely astonishing. Strange enough, i have never likes the absolute unity of the materials. But that natural stone, that has gone through the natural process of ageing, with the light tunnels, falling from the courtyard, is a killer. Would love to go back there, even if it will be in my dreams.