Malta’s Casa Rocca Piccola: The Timeless Beauty of a Multigenerational Home
Photos Taken by Traditional Assets
A Living Legacy of Malta’s Noble Heritage
Earlier this summer the Traditional Assets team made our first visit to the island of Malta. One of the highlights of our trip was exploring a local landmark home that captures an incredible part of Malta’s rich history.
Casa Rocca Piccola is a historic palazzo located in the heart of Valletta, Malta. Built in the late 16th century, this grand residence has been home to Maltese nobility for over 400 years. Originally constructed for Don Pietro La Rocca, an admiral of the Order of Saint John, the palazzo has remained in the hands of his descendants, the noble de Piro family.
The house is a rare example of a lived-in aristocratic residence that has been preserved and adapted over the centuries. It features more than 50 rooms, including state rooms, a family chapel, private apartments, and extensive underground passages, which served as air-raid shelters during World War II. The rooms are filled with a remarkable collection of antique furniture, art, silverware, and family memorabilia, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Malta's nobility.
Casa Rocca Piccola is not just a museum but a living home, with the de Piro family still residing there today. In 1990, the current Marquis de Piro opened part of the palazzo to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich history, architecture, and treasures. The palazzo is a unique cultural landmark that reflects Malta's noble heritage and its centuries-long connection to European history.
Vibrant Expression of Legacy
We loved the bold statement of color and tradition. The striking red and yellow walls create a vibrant backdrop for the rich, dark wood furniture, which includes an ornate black and yellow armoire adorned with delicate floral patterns. The portraits of religious figures, the crosses, and the various family photographs create a deeply personal and spiritual space. This room is a testament to the family's roots and their connection to both their faith and their ancestors.
The dining room is a seamless blend of classical and eclectic styles. The long dining table, adorned with fine china, silverware, and crystal, speaks to an era of grand dinner parties and formal gatherings. The surrounding artwork and furniture pieces, ranging from ornate sideboards to elegant chairs, create a space that is both stately and welcoming. The high ceilings, archways, and large windows framed by tall pillars add an air of grandeur, while the soft light filtering through the windows gives the room a warm, lived-in feel.
A Sanctuary of Knowledge and Heritage
The library—a sanctuary for reflection and learning is a space that is dominated by a large, intricately carved wooden table, topped with marble, and surrounded by bookshelves filled with leather-bound volumes. The arched doorway, accented with soft pink and gray tones, adds a touch of whimsy to the otherwise serious space. The statues, busts, and framed portraits speak to a deep respect for history, tradition, and intellectual pursuits. This room is not just a place for reading; it is a tribute to the minds and hands that have passed through this home.
The Accumulation of Treasures Over Time
What is most compelling about these interiors is the way they reflect the accumulation of objects over time. Each room is a curated collection of pieces from different eras, each contributing to the overall narrative of the home. The furniture, artwork, and decorative objects have clearly been acquired and passed down through generations, creating a rich tapestry of history and personal stories.
This home is not just a place to live; it is a physical manifestation of the family's journey through time. It is a place where the past and present coexist harmoniously, where each object is not just decor but a cherished relic of the family's legacy. The result is an interior that is deeply personal, layered with meaning, and filled with a sense of warmth and continuity.
Browse Our Inventory of Antiques and Create A Layered Look For Your Home
If you're like us and don't have a richly layered ancestral home but appreciate the aesthetic of a warm, inviting living room or study filled with character and history, then you'll love our curated inventory. We offer a thoughtfully selected collection of books, paintings, statues, sterling silver pieces, and unique home decor items that can bring that timeless, layered look to your space. Each piece has been chosen for its ability to add depth and warmth, helping you create a home that tells a story, even if it’s one you’re just beginning to write.
