Ġnien Victor Calvagna: New urban green space in Mosta

Named after the revered paediatric oncologist Dr. Victor Calvagna, who lost his life in a tragic road accident, this garden honours the founding member, President and driving force behind one of Malta’s most active charitable institutions, the Puttinu Cares Foundation

GreenServ inaugurated its first urban greening project in Mosta less than a year after it first announced the project. A dilapidated land spanning almost 4,000 square metres that was previously inaccessible has now been transformed into a vibrant and green public space.
Today, this garden accommodates a diversity of activities providing interest and amenity for residents. A playground, an outdoor gym, a fitness trail, a vegetable plot and a relaxation area have all been integrated seamlessly in a clever way. Indeed, social dimension, urban vitality and environmental sustainability were at the core of the design process.

The design of the garden revolved around the mature olive trees that were already there. This led to winding pathways dotted with benches intently placed under the blissful shade of the trees to provide a break from the heat. A natural material was chosen for the pathways that will, through time, blend with the soil without causing any damage to vegetation and yet blend further with the surroundings.

The playground and fitness equipment is made of timber that originates from sustainable forests while the rubber flooring used in the play area is made from fully recycled rubber chips. Solar panels were also installed on the canopy area that has been finished with recyclable decking.

This garden seeks to create and strengthen social connections. While encouraging active exercise and play, it is also a place where one can rest, read a book and enjoy a conversation. The canopy area will encourage learning in a different setting away from classrooms and halls while lending itself to different community activities. A vegetable plot intended to encourage communal gardening activities will also provide opportunities for people to learn whilst promoting healthier lifestyles.

Named after the revered paediatric oncologist Dr. Victor Calvagna, who lost his life in a tragic road accident, this garden is meant to honour the founding member, President and driving force behind one of Malta’s most active charitable institutions, the Puttinu Cares Foundation.
Ġnien Victor Calvagna will certainly have an influence over the social dimension as it seeks to generate a positive use of the space by shaping community ties, and stimulating interaction between people and the environment. It is meant to provide a green space that residents could enjoy in close proximity to their homes. A Little Crush