Censu Tabone’s former residence in St Julian’s given highest protection status

A late 19th century residential property which has a unique neoclassical theatre in its garden has been formally recognised as a Grade 1 building by the Planning Authority. It is the highest protection status afforded to a building, the PA said.

The property belonged to former President Vincent (Censu) Tabone and his wife, Maria Tabone.

It is located in Triq ilKarmnu, St Julians, close to the Lapsi Chapel and is considered to be one of the earliest properties in the area. The historic open-air theatre in the back garden of the property is of significant importance. According to historical documentation, Teatru Melita, as it was known when it was built around the year 1870, is considered to be the oldest surviving theatre of any kind in the Sliema and St. Julians area. The theatre started to be frequented by people who spent their summer holidays in the area, which was predominantly a summer resort among a few farmers and a small community of fishermen.

Apart from theatrical performances and lectures, cinema films were occasionally also screened there. It is evident that this theatre played an important role in the making of theatre as a popular platform of entertainment in Malta. It also served as the birthplace of the most important theatre company of the late 19th and early 20th century Malta, the Kumpanija L’Indipendenza, made famous by Mikelang Borg.

The residential part of the property also exhibits significant vernacular architectural elements and features that are synonymous with traditional Maltese townhouses and urban conservation areas.

The Planning Authority, in consultation with the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage, scheduled the property as Grade 1 in view of its architectural value as well as its historical, political and social significance associated with the theatre and the person of Dr Tabone.