An iconic feature of Maltese architecture, door knockers are as much a social statement as they are a creative embellishment to our front doors.
If first impressions are anything to go by, the knockers on Maltese front doors speak volumes. Expressive by nature, we Maltese never shy away from making a statement, and our home is an extension of our personality.
Long after the advent of the door bell, door knockers (il-ħabbata in Maltese) remained a popular feature, the final flourish to the house facade, and the first welcome to any visitor.
Centuries ago, it is believed that people used to scratch on the door rather than knock, but once knockers were introduced, creativity abounded and they soon began being used as a status symbol. The wealthier the household, the bigger the door knocker.
Grand palazzos sported extravagant, bold, brass knockers with elaborate designs perhaps even featuring elements from their coat of arms symbolising the family’s authority and social standing. Look out for these beauties on the doors of noble family houses in Mdina or Valletta.
Modest abodes would contend with a simple brass or metal ring for a knocker, but certain designs quickly gained popularity, and have now become iconic works of art. The dolphin with a trident-shaped tail is probably the most common design, either as a single element or featured as a pair of dolphins touching at the mouth and tail forming a ring, often with the Maltese cross as a base. Seahorses and other maritime themed designs are also used.
Despite not being at all Mediterranean, lions are a very popular design, with other exotic animals such as elephants and wolves, also featuring. An elegant hand is often seen gracing an equally smart door. While brass and metal were the most common materials used, some knockers were also made of ceramic.
Still in production, door knockers make an original, albeit heavy holiday souvenir either for your own front door, or, as I have used my small dolphin version, as a bookend. Artisans Centre in Republic Street, Valletta has a large selection of knockers of varying sizes.