Unearthing History: The Inaugural Excavation Season at Bidnija

This summer marks the first season of an exciting archaeological excavation in Bidnija, a collaborative project between the University of Malta, Heritage Malta, and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage. This project not only seeks to explore and understand this ancient site but also offers a valuable training opportunity for archaeology students at the University of Malta.

A Collaborative Effort in the Fields of Bidnija

This year’s excavation focused on strategically selected areas within surveyed fields of Bidnija. Staff from the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) played a pivotal role, supervising two of the four trenches that were opened. Their expertise not only ensured the execution of the excavation but also provided fieldwork training for the students and guided the project partners, facilitating the exploration and interpretation of various discoveries and encounters.

For the archaeology students at the University of Malta, this excavation is an opportunity to engage in practical, on-site training. Under the guidance of seasoned archaeologists from SCH and Heritage Malta, students are learning the intricacies of excavation, artefact handling, and documentation. This practical experience is crucial for their academic and professional development, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world archaeological practice.

Conclusion of the First Season

As this excavation season comes to a close, the collaborative efforts have yielded significant progress. The collaboration between the University of Malta, Heritage Malta, and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage aims to bring valuable insights and enhance our understanding of history.

SCH staff members have also visited the site to engage with their colleagues and observe the unfolding discoveries. These visits have been instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding of the work being carried out and ensuring the seamless integration of knowledge and expertise among all project partners.