Ġnien Zaylen, a new accessible and therapeutic garden, has been inaugurated at Aġenzija Sapport’s Day Services Centre in Paola. The Ministry for Environment, through Project Green, developed the outdoor space into “a new, inclusive and therapeutic green space,” offering improved accessibility and support for persons with disabilities.
The garden, named Ġnien Zaylen in memory of a child who tragically lost his life, spans around 5,000 square metres and was created in collaboration with Aġenzija Sapport. It was inaugurated by Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli and Minister for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector Julia Farrugia, in the presence of Zaylen’s family and members of the community.
Minister Dalli said the project “encompasses what our work is all about: creating spaces that nurture people,” adding that it commemorates Zaylen “with a living space.” Minister Farrugia noted that the garden “represents a space of peace, care, and love,” and aligns with Malta’s National Autism Strategy 2021–2030 by offering accessible sensory experiences for visitors with different abilities.
The revamped garden features landscaped pathways, interactive play equipment, raised planters, quiet zones, sensory routes, an accessible Bocci pitch, and an upgraded basketball court, inviting community interaction. Public opening hours are weekdays 12:30–18:00 and weekends 7:00–18:00.
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