THE COURTYARD

AN ELEGANT, WARM AND WELCOMING FAMILY RESIDENCE FOR AT LEAST FOUR CENTURIES, PALAZZO FALSON HAS LOOKED DOWN IN BENIGN AND SILENT APPROVAL UPON INTIMATE FAMILY GATHERINGS AND SERIOUS AND AUSTERE FORMAL FEASTS.

Although the building has been standing for 800 years, we learn of the first official guest resident in 1531. It was the French Grand Master Philippe Villiers de L'Isle-Adam who brought the Knights of St John to Malta. The palazzo continued to be used by various families until the last much loved family owners, Olof and Nella Gollcher until their death in 1962.

With its historic architectural features, Palazzo Falson is a truly enchanting setting for intimate weddings. Couples seeking an unforgettable backdrop for such a special day will never be disappointed. Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, the non-profit making organisation that spreads awareness of Maltese heritage, has been captivated by this gem of a venue, ever since becoming the everyday custodians of its iconic walls. Following the total and sympathetic refurbishment which was completed in 2007, the Palazzo was first opened to the public. Not only does it offer a plethora of photographic shots but the many indoor options provide shade and shelter during peak seasons and at times of unexpected weather changes.

Its inner warmth extends to the open, plant-girt courtyard at the core of this majestic palazzo. The courtyard is topped by a discreet, arched bell-housing, with a gently splashing, renaissancestyle fountain at the centre; wisteria-clad walls are climbed by bougainvillea reaching to the ever-cool corner arbour and the steep rising, Renaissance side-staircase. Above the eastern arm of the mid-level, shelf-like terrace, the bust relief of the last private owner, Olof, smiles down benignly on a kaleidoscope of events - from civil wedding ceremonies, intimate private dinners and receptions, music soirees, short film shows, book launches and children’s activities that all jos tle below, where once he and Nella hosted their many friends from all walks of Maltese society.

Beneath his likeness is a stone bench, the perfect tranquil spot for a couple to enjoy their alone time together. On the front face are entwined their initials, O(lof) and N(ella) and the date of their civil marriage in 1938. The Gollchers also celebrated their nuptials once again, not in the timeless splendour of their Norman House, as the Palazzo was then named; but in Rome, the eternal city in 1947.

Why get married in Malta? There are many reasons! 300 days of sunshine, crisp blue sea and countless unique wedding venues.

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm (last entrance at 4:00pm). However, during the Easter period the museum will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday and open on Easter Monday. Audio guided tours are available in the following languages: Maltese, English, Italian, French, German and Spanish.

For inquiries, please contact us on +356 21454512 or email bookings@palazzofalson.com or visit our website www.palazzofalson.com/ www.julijane-maltawedding.com

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is managed by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, a non-profit heritage foundation aiming to spread awareness about our heritage through museums, publications, exhibitions and events.

Every couple has its own love story and your wedding day will be unique and memorable.

I organise your wedding from start to finish.

I will support you with the necessary paperwork and be on hand on your wedding day.

The only thing you have to do by yourself is “say YES”.

JuliJaneMaltaWedding julijane.maltawedding info@julijane-maltawedding.com +356 7942 0544

WORDS CHRISTINE CASSAR