The Saint Petersburg based architectural studio Svetozar Andreev in collaboration with Elena Britanishskaya has designed "The heart of Malta" proposal in replacement of collapsed Azure Window, that located in San Lawrenz, Malta.
Architect's statement: It-Tieqa Zerqa, more popularly known as the Azure Window, was an icon of the Maltese islands. Following a storm in March of 2017, the arch collapsed into the sea, and there was no way to restore it.
image © Svetozar Andreev
However, we have a plan to give this symbol a new life:
It is a polygonal architectural form with mirrored steel faces, which will blend into the landscape, and have the same size and proportions as the original limestone arch.
Within this form we have designed over 5,000 square meters of exhibition space laid out over five spiral floors, with a dynamic laser show in which each spiral step represents one thousand years of Maltese history.
image © Svetozar Andreev
It will be a perfect monument and symbol of the fusion of modernity and nature, of time and history, and a testament to the tenacity of the human spirit - Svetozar Andreev
Video © Svetozar Andreev
The project objective is to create a centre of attraction in Dwejra (San Lowrenz, Gozo, Malta), a new asset to draw tourists, this time to a new architectural and cultural landmark. We are confident that this project represents an outstanding investment for the future of Malta and Gozo. For the project, we propose to make use of the latest techniques and materials available in architecture and shipbuilding to reflect the environment of Dwejra, which will enable us to bring the project to reality while preserving the existing natural coastal landscape- Svetozar Andreev.
image © Svetozar Andreev
Architect: The Svetozar Andreev Studio
Interior designer: Elena Britanishskaya
Location: Dwejra, Gozo, San Lawrenz, Malta
