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International Scientists In Malta Examining Historic Discoveries In Mellieħa

International Scientists In Malta Examining Historic Discoveries In Mellieħa
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Prime Minister Robert Abela visited the archaeological excavation at Ta' Latnija in Mellieħa, where researchers have uncovered evidence that is reshaping Malta's early history.

The discovery suggests that humans were present on the islands around 1,000 years earlier than previously believed, challenging long-standing historical understanding.

The site has attracted considerable international attention, with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) confirming that National Geographic is preparing a feature on the discoveries.

Several international scientists have also travelled to Malta to examine the findings and contribute to ongoing research.

The Ta' Latnija project is also reconstructing 300,000 years of Malta's climatic history, providing researchers with new information about environmental change and its long-term effects.

Professor Eleanor Scerri said the research is supported by millions of euros in European funding and is creating employment opportunities for scientists and other specialists. She added that Maltese students are also benefiting by visiting the site to observe the excavation and research work.

Prime Minister Abela praised the archaeologists involved, saying the discovery is rewriting Malta's history and overturning previous assumptions about the islands' earliest inhabitants.

Researchers explained that the findings also challenge the belief that Mesolithic hunter-gatherer communities lacked the ability to undertake significant sea journeys. Instead, the evidence indicates that communities were travelling at least 100 kilometres across the Mediterranean.

The Prime Minister said sites such as Ta' Latnija could eventually qualify for World Heritage status and pledged continued Government support for protecting Malta's cultural heritage.

SCH Superintendent Kurt Farrugia added that the research is also providing the first evidence of how Malta's ecosystem responded to environmental conditions during that period.

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