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Under The Sea: Malta’s First Deep-Water Archaeological Park Launches This Year

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Malta is full of beautiful sites and places to visit and each one has a deep connection to our history and culture. But what about the sites under the sea? Malta is a hotspot for diving with some of the best sites in the Med. And now these areas are going to become accessible for everyone to visit.

This year, Malta’s first deep-water archaeological park will be launched by Heritage Malta. 

The park, which will be on a seabed site off Xlendi spread on an area of 67,000 square metres, is the result of an exceptional collaboration between the public and private sectors, local councils, and stakeholders. 

The Embassy of the Republic of Croatia, in collaboration with the European Commission Representation in Malta, discussed this concept during Lungomare Mediterraneo/Submerged testimonies of the modern Europe which was organised in Valletta.

The Minister for National Heritage Owen Bonnici stated that underwater cultural heritage encompasses more than just tourism, archaeology, and academia. This two year project was undertaken by Heritage Malta together with the Cultural Heritage Superintendency with the support of other partners. 

Malta Airport Foundation is supporting Heritage Malta’s pioneering work to declare an underwater site the first deep-water archaeological park.

The site, which has been recorded in detail, is to be declared as the first national archeological park in deep water making it a very attractive option for people who aren’t able to explore Malta’s underwater heritage or divers wanting to learn more about what we can offer.

“An online museum for underwater cultural heritage has been launched on underwatermalta.org. This user-friendly virtual museum is regularly updated with new historic underwater sites, ensuring it remains of interest to the public. Currently, visitors can explore 20 underwater sites in 3D from the comfort of their homes. The site has global appeal, with tens of thousands of users visiting annually to discover Malta’s underwater cultural heritage,” he said.

Dr Bonnici explained that the new deep-water underwater archeological park will also be uploaded on the website. “Through this virtual museum, more people can appreciate this unique site in our seas,” he explained.

Prof. Timmy Gambin, on his part, stated that the management of underwater cultural heritage is going from strength to strength in Malta.

“Thanks to the combined efforts of Heritage Malta, the University of Malta and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, Malta is at the forefront of making accessible a part of history that is otherwise hidden,” Prof Gambin said.

Will you be taking a deep dive here?

 

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