Jake Vella’s Legacy Lives On With Open Day In His Honour
Just days before the late Jake Vella’s birthday, his memory will be honoured with an Open Day at the Għar Dalam and Borġ in-Nadur sites in Birżebbuġa. This initiative is being organised in collaboration with the Birżebbuġa Local Council.
The Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, in partnership with Heritage Malta, will open the prehistoric sites of Għar Dalam and Borġ in-Nadur to the public free of charge.
Għar Dalam, Malta’s oldest prehistoric site, holds evidence of the first human presence on the island dating back 7,400 years. The site showcases layers of animal bones that shed light on ancient times, displayed in a rare Victorian-style exhibition found in few places across Europe.
Inside the cave itself, nature has adorned the space with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, alongside unique rock formations. Visitors will be captivated by the insights into Malta’s distant ancestors. The site, which forms part of the Natura 2000 protected areas, also features a variety of indigenous trees and plants.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore Borġ in-Nadur, located just below Għar Dalam. Positioned between the picturesque Wied Żembaq and Wied Dalam valleys, this Neolithic site was excavated in the 1920s by archaeologist Margaret Murray, whose discoveries were crucial in deepening our understanding of Maltese prehistory.
Saturday’s Open Day will feature a range of family-friendly activities, including events for children and a selection of Heritage Malta books for sale. Donations will also be collected in aid of the Association for Abandoned Animals.