Villa Bonici, Baroque villa in Sliema, Malta.
Villa Bonici is a limestone baroque building in Sliema featuring multiple arches throughout its structure and terraced gardens that once descended toward the Mediterranean. The property sits on Manuel Dimech Street with a layered architectural design reflecting its original purpose as a substantial residential estate.
The estate was built in 1872 as a countryside residence for Marquis Emanuel Testaferrata Bonici Ghaxaq during Malta's period under British rule. The property later transitioned from private family use to a different institutional role in the 20th century.
The villa served as an educational institution for decades, shaping the lives of students who learned and played within its garden spaces. It became a gathering place and symbol of community life in the area during that period.
The site is centrally located in Sliema and easily accessible on foot, though signage and information at the location may be limited. It is worth checking opening hours in advance since the property's availability for visitors can vary depending on its current use.
The property functioned as one of Malta's first outdoor cinema venues, with screenings held in its garden spaces under the open sky. This pioneering use of the space for entertainment makes it a notable part of the island's cultural past.
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