Step back in time with the terramaxka, which brings merry melodies to the streets
Have you ever come across a colourful and ornate rolling structure, belting out tunes in the middle of Malta’s capital, operated by a fun-looking guy? That’s the terramaxka and its operator Mari Van Rooy!
The terramaxka is an old (late 19th century to be exact) musical instrument that was used to bring merry music and melodies to the bustling streets of the capital. The instrument is like an organ, and while there are different versions, this particular one was pushed along by the owner (or a donkey back in the day), attracting passers-by.
The terramaxka, meaning kitarra magica (magical guitar), was very popular on the islands, and versions of it were imported from places such as France and Switzerland. The instrument was usually exhibited during local festas as part of the celebrations of the town, yearly carnival activities, and sometimes even in daily life.
Holland-born Mari came to Malta in 1977 when working on a ship at the drydocks. Mari actually fell in love with the island and a Maltese lady, and eventually settled down here.
Mari loved the terramaxka so much that he decided to restore one dating back to 1929, and with some TLC it was back on its feet. But unfortunately, it was lost in a store fire. Mari didn’t lose hope though, purchasing one formerly used in Paris.
Nowadays, Mari owns the last terramaxka left on the islands, and when spotted in the capital it definitely brings back so many memories to locals. Unfortunately, the other terramaxkas have succumbed to the test of time, being sold to Americans or broken. Nowadays, Mari plays classic songs, while also incorporating more popular ones.
Have you spotted the terramaxka?
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