From wasteland to wonder! New public garden in Santa Lucija now open to the public
What was once an abandoned and inaccessible patch of land in Santa Lucija has been completely transformed into a vibrant and serene public garden, now open for enjoyment by the community. Spanning 2,300 square metres, the newly launched Gnien l-Iskultura is the latest project by Project Green, aimed at revitalising urban spaces and enriching residents' quality of life.
Officially inaugurated this week, the garden is expected to benefit around 5,000 nearby residents, offering a new open-air destination that blends nature with cultural design.
Malta now have 59 open spaces across Malta and Gozo, including 39 gardens and parks and 20 valleys, with more to come in the near future.
With an investment exceeding €1 million, the garden was designed to complement the adjacent Serenity Garden, also known as the Chinese Garden. Inspired by Oriental landscaping, Gnien l-Iskultura features symbolic elements such as a red iron bridge spanning a koi pond.
The colour red, central to the design, is traditionally believed to attract joy and prosperity while warding off negative energy. The space has also been enhanced with the planting of 38 trees, adding to its natural charm.
The goal was to ensure that Gnien l-Iskultura is accessible to everyone, while also acting as a natural extension of the existing Oriental-style garden. Project Green will also oversee the ongoing maintenance of the site to ensure its long-term appeal and sustainability.
Gnien l-Iskultura is not just a garden but it’s a space where families, children, and visitors can connect with nature and find peace.