World Heritage Site:
City of Valletta
Publication Year:
2021
Publication Type:
Article
Publication Identifier:
WHE1E84639E6D
Summary
Urban blue spaces, such as water fountains, significantly enhance human health and wellbeing, particularly in dense, semi-arid environments like Malta. The restoration of the Triton Fountain in Valletta not only preserved its aesthetic appeal but also fostered therapeutic experiences for inhabitants, reducing feelings of inequality and strengthening connections to place through biophilia and topophilia. Qualitative interviews revealed that restored urban blue spaces can evoke nostalgia, reinforce identity, and instill pride, underscoring their role in creating healthier, more cohesive communities.
Citation
Satariano, B. (2021). Recreating a therapeutic blue urban space through the architectural restoration of the Triton Fountain in Valletta, Malta. Cities & Health, 6(6), 1094–1105. https://doi.org/10.1080/23748834.2020.1863105