Latnija Cave: Pushing the Boundaries of Prehistory
Located in Mellieħa, Latnija Cave is a remarkable archaeological site that has just been officially added to the National Inventory — a crucial step in safeguarding its exceptional archaeological and historical value.
This large doline holds groundbreaking evidence of Mesolithic-era human presence in Malta, including stone tools, hearths, ash deposits, and faunal remains — a discovery that rewrites our understanding of early human settlement and seafaring in the Mediterranean.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage warmly congratulates the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology and the Classics and Archaeology at UM on this groundbreaking research.
We are proud to have supported this important study, which reveals that Malta was reached by seafaring hunter-gatherers over a thousand years before the arrival of the first farmers. This discovery not only redefines what we know about early human mobility across the Mediterranean but also extends Malta’s prehistory by a millenium.
We commend the collaborative efforts behind this project, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting scientific research that deepens our understanding of Malta’s earliest human history.
This work also underscores the vital role of scientific methods in archaeology, from the study of material culture to the analysis of environmental and biological remains. This site is a striking example of how archaeology and science cannot work in isolation. It is through such interdisciplinary approaches that the rich and complex story of our islands continues to unfold.
Protected Heritage
🛑 Please be aware: Works are currently underway to safeguard the site. Any form of unpermitted exploration, excavation, or interference within archaeological sites is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.
✅ Excavation or research activities can only proceed with a permit issued by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, and according to imposed conditions.
Latnija Cave is a sensitive and significant cultural asset. Its protection is essential to preserving this rare window into our prehistoric past.
Help us safeguard Malta’s cultural heritage.
As outlined in Article 59(1) and Article 70 of the Cultural Heritage Act 2002 (as amended), it is imperative to note that any development or intervention on these properties requires prior approval from the Superintendent. Furthermore, causing damage to any of the properties included in the Inventory, even if privately owned, is strictly prohibited and constitutes an offense punishable by law.
The Superintendence encourages the public to visit the GIS Interface on our website, which not only serves as a portal of information for all sites located in the National Inventory, but can also easily highlight the latest additions when selecting “Latest Entries” on the lefthand navigator.
The National Inventory is a cultural heritage register curated and compiled by the Superintendence as one of its functions established by the Cultural Heritage Act (CAP 445).
This publication can be found on Government Gazzette No. 21,421, dated 15, April, 2025 (G.N. 595).
Feature photo credits: Andres Curras
