Mattia Preti's old Valletta home put up for rent

The government will lease out the former home of Baroque artist Mattia Preti in Triq Marsamxett, Valletta on a 65-year temporary emphyteusis.

Planning parliamentary secretary Michael Falzon told the press that the tender, which will be issued on Monday, will not have a fixed cost and that interested bidders will be requested to declare their own personal intentions for the building's regeneration. The winning bidder will not be able to add floors or exterior structural alterations to the house.

"The house has economic, touristic and cultural potential, but it is in an dilapidated state," competitiveness parliamentary secretary Jose Herrera said. "In a regenerated state, the house can stimulate the economy of its surrounding area, improve cultural awareness, and attract cultural tourism."