World’s First Deep Water Park Archaeological Unveiled In Xlendi Waters
In a groundbreaking venture, the world’s inaugural Deepwater Archaeological Park has been unveiled off Xlendi, Gozo, creating ripples of excitement in the global archaeological community.
Set between 105 and 115 metres deep, the park showcases a seabed adorned with silt, sand, and rocky outcrops from extinct coral reefs.
These features host a plethora of archaeological artefacts, primarily amphorae. Given the continuous sediment deposit from Xlendi Valley, it’s anticipated that more hidden treasures await discovery beneath the surface.
Marking this historic launch, the Minister for the National Heritage, Owen Bonnici, and Minister for Gozo, Clint Camilleri, hosted an inauguration ceremony on the Xlendi waterfront. Minister Bonnici confirmed that the park was recognised as an Archaeological Zone at Sea in 2020, covering an impressive 67,000m² of archaeologically rich marine territory.
“This underwater wonder allows researchers and technical divers globally to dive deep into Malta’s history from an entirely new archaeological lens.”
In addition, for those who prefer a virtual dive, the park’s marvels will be showcased on www.underwatermalta.org. “This digital portal will enable everyone to marvel at the hidden treasures of our seas,” he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Minister Clint Camilleri emphasised the fact that Gozo now boasts the world’s premier deep-sea archaeological park. “This unique park promises travellers an unparalleled experience in Gozo, showcasing our rich heritage and the legacies of our ancestors, which forms the fabric of our identity” he said.
At the forefront of this initiative, Professor Timmy Gambin, of Heritage Malta’s Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit, detailed that Xlendi’s undersea realm has been a hub for innovative technologies since the late 1950s. This latest addition reinforces Gozo’s status in preserving cultural heritage and furthering its tourism prospects.
Josef Formosa Gauci, Chairman of the Malta Airport Foundation, expressed the foundation’s pride in supporting this trailblazing initiative. The park, although catering to a select group of technical divers due to its depth, is poised to share its underwater wonders with specialised audiences and the wider public, thanks to Heritage Malta’s commendable efforts.
Damien Spiteri, Munxar’s Mayor, praised this novel venture, stating it aligns perfectly with Xlendi’s rich cultural and environmental essence, thereby ensuring the village’s spirit remains untouched and celebrated.
The fruition of this monumental park stems from a joint endeavour by the Malta Airport Foundation, Heritage Malta’s Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, the University of Malta, and the Munxar Local Council.
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