Architect Resigns to Protect Malta's Heritage as President of Din l-Art Ħelwa

Patrick Calleja, a former architect, has resigned from his job, which he described as "toxic," to take on the role of president of Din l-Art Ħelwa (DLĦ), Malta's national trust. Calleja was disillusioned with his work as an architect, dealing with the Planning Authority, which he called a "political football" and the main cause of the "horrendous uglification of Malta." Feeling that his job was leading nowhere, Calleja wanted to do something more meaningful.

As the new DLĦ president, Calleja is now focused on safeguarding Malta's historic, artistic, and natural heritage. One of his main concerns is the proposed removal of trees to widen a road in Gozo, which he considers "criminal, useless, and a waste of money." Calleja's goals include getting the state and society to work together to protect Malta's cultural and artistic patrimony, and securing funding for projects such as the restoration of the San Ċir medieval chapel.

Why this matters: Calleja's decision to leave his architecture career to lead DLĦ highlights the growing concern over the preservation of Malta's heritage amid development pressures. His passion and determination to make a positive impact reflect the importance of protecting a nation's cultural and natural treasures for future generations.

Calleja is feeling passionate about his new role and is determined to make a positive impact on preserving Malta's heritage. "I felt my job was leading nowhere and I wanted to do something more meaningful," Calleja said of his decision to resign from architecture and lead DLĦ. With his focus on safeguarding historic sites, natural landscapes, and cultural patrimony, Calleja aims to rally support from both the government and the public to protect Malta's irreplaceable heritage.

Key Takeaways

• Patrick Calleja, former architect, resigned to lead Malta's national trust DLĦ.
• Calleja was disillusioned with the "toxic" architecture industry and "horrendous uglification" of Malta.
• As DLĦ president, Calleja aims to safeguard Malta's heritage, oppose tree removal in Gozo.
• Calleja seeks to rally government and public support to protect Malta's cultural treasures.
• Calleja's career shift highlights growing concerns over Malta's heritage amid development pressures.