Echoes of elegance! Spotlight on Casino Notabile in Rabat, where Malta’s elite once gathered
As you walk or drive up the busy Saqqajja Hill, leading to Rabat, Mdina, and Dingli, you might notice a striking building perched majestically at the very top of the hill. Standing out against some of the more modern structures in the area, this impressive edifice is known as Casino Notabile.
Despite its name, it was never a gambling establishment - the word 'casino' in this context refers to a social club or meeting place, just like Casino Maltese in Valletta. Built in 1887, Casino Notabile was designed by the prolific British architect Webster Paulson, known for his contribution to several structures on the island, including Jewish cemetery in Marsa and a chapel in the Addolorata Cemetery.
Casino Notabile was intended as a leisure and social venue for Malta’s elite of the 19th century. Positioned at the top of Saqqajja Hill, it enjoys sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and nearby Mdina, the Silent City - ones you can appreciate too if you manage to make it to the top of the steep Saqqajja Hill!
Inside, one finds a spacious hall and several smaller rooms, which were used for gatherings, events, and meetings. Unfortunately, by the beginning of the 21st century, it was left in a dilapidated state and in danger of collapsing, with wooden planks propped up against its façade to prevent it from collapsing, until being restored in 2016. Thankfully, visitors can now enjoy the beautiful building once again, with its rooms occasionally used to host small events or exhibitions.
Have you ever noticed this beauty at the entrance of Rabat?