Rabat, Gozo
Location
Rabat, Gozo
European Regional Development Fund
Fund
European Regional Development Fund
Investing in Competitiveness for a better quality of life
Programme
Investing in Competitiveness for a better quality of life
€1,951,162
Cost of Project
€1,951,162
€1,658,828
Total EU Allocation
€1,658,828
This garden, a veritable lung in the busy Gozitan capital, hosts a large variety of local and imported trees offering shade from the hot sun during summer. It is a perfect resting place for many shoppers and for people who just want sit back enjoy the green surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of the busy town.
Villa Rundle was once part of a British government experimental farm, which helped farmers to upgrade the quality of their livestock and produce. William Millard, as the story goes, chief officer of the Gozitan civil service, sought assistance from Governor Sir Leslie Rundle (and particularly funds) to build a garden in Victoria on part of the existing farm. With the Governor’s backing, funds were released from the official coffers and works started.
Several touristic interventions sought to upgrade the garden’s infrastructure, including the development of a stage structure for cultural events, whilst enhancing its landscape and botanical value. This allowed the garden to effectively contribute to the social and economic aspects of present day Gozo.
The project, under the coordination of the Ministry for Gozo, was partly financed through EU Funds (85% Cohesion Fund 2007-2013 and 15% from national Funds).
Apart from extensive embellishment works, the project included the installation of a new electrical system, new paving and the relocation of an existing stage. The development of new concepts were also undertaken within this project
A discovery play area, a visitors’ centre and other thematic zones increased facilities within the Gardens. New administrative facilities together with new garden furniture as well as a new entrance contributed towards the enhancement of these gardens that lie over almost 15,000 m² of land in the midst of Victoria.
Apart from providing a tranquil, green space in the hub of the island, these gardens also serve as a venue for social and cultural events during the year. This regeneration project considerably improved the area whilst providing better facilities to cater for educational and social activities in the island of Gozo.