Grotesque Saljaturi Royalty-Free Stock Image

Valletta, capital city of Malta, is famous for his balconies. This a partial view of Palace Armoury balconies. Two distinctive means were employed to provide a masonry support for the base of balconies. This was done by creating a masonry cushion along the length of the base or by inserting stone brackets to the wall on which the balcony rested. These brackets proved to be the most popular option. They are known as saljaturi and were often the object of lavish decoration. An intriguing aspect of many saljaturi are the grotesque faces with disturbing expressions that are carved upon them. These are often menacing, repellent and wicked, bearing an expression at times verging on the burlesque. Were actually believed to ward off the evil eye.