Culture Minister Owen Bonnici has confirmed that the seven-storey Christmas tree installed outside Parliament in Valletta cost €19,447, with contractors selected through a direct order.

When questioned in Parliament by MPs Rebekah Borg and Julie Zahra, Bonnici did not specify who was responsible for the tree’s design and installation.

The tree, adorned with features reminiscent of urban apartment blocks—including a door, balconies, and windows—has faced public criticism.

Responsibility for the installation lies with the Valletta Cultural Agency (VCA), led by Jason Micallef; however, the agency has not disclosed details of the design process.

Minister Bonnici stated that the tree was inspired by Anton Buttigieg’s poem “Il-Kebbies tal-Fanali.” He justified the use of direct orders by explaining that a public tender failed to attract interest, necessitating the agency to find contractors who could deliver the project on time.

The installation has sparked a social media backlash, with critics comparing its design to Malta’s construction boom. Former Valletta mayor Paul Borg Olivier questioned the necessity of transforming a Christmas tree into a building.

In response, VCA Chairman Jason Micallef defended the tree’s design, asserting that it honours Maltese traditions and dismissing the criticism as politically motivated.

He emphasised that the decorations are not a celebration of construction but a reflection of cultural heritage.

And just last week, visitors walking through Valletta’s entrance were left in darkness, after the Christmas Tree in question suffered a power cut, prompting yet another wave of backlash.

Images: VCA

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