The summer months in Malta tend to be long, hot and humid. For many the only hangout is at some beach to be close to the sea. Many tend to forget that other places are available where one can unwind.
If you feel like finding some serenity and peacefulness, you could also head to San Anton Gardens in Attard. This garden provides a lovely shaded spot that surrounds the Presidential Palace.
The garden was built by Grandmaster Antoine de Paule. During the first century of its existence the garden was kept private and no tourists were allowed inside. In 1882 these gardens were opened to the general public by Governor Borton.
The garden has plenty of walkways that take you through different parts of the garden which is full of ponds and different species of trees and flowers. The ponds are filled with swans and families of ducks, whereas in the pathways you will come across a good number of cats and a couple of peacocks.
Of particular interest are a number of huge trees which have been planted many years or centuries ago. For many years it was a customary practice that visiting Heads of State would plant a tree in this garden to commemorate their visit. This was started by Grandmaster De Paule.
An interesting monument within the Gardens is one dedicated to Grandparents, who play an important role in raising up children.
San Anton gardens are a real botanic gem that many a time are forgotten and are only enjoyed by a limited number of people. If you haven’t been for some time, I do suggest you pay a visit sometime during a late afternoon which is surely the best time to visit.
eman azzopardi 