Superintendence of Cultural Heritage Celebrates 20 Years of Discovery with Landmark Publication
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage is proud to announce its latest publication, The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage: 20 Years of Discovery 2003–2022, launched on 3rd December, at Palazzo De La Salle, Valletta. This publication commemorates the first two decades of the Superintendence’s work since its establishment in 2003 under the Cultural Heritage Act of 2002.
The volume provides a comprehensive overview of twenty years of archaeological activity by the Superintendence. Between 2003 and 2022, nearly 1,250 new archaeological sites were discovered across Malta, varying in size and significance. For this publication, 98 of the most notable discoveries were selected, representing the full range of Maltese prehistoric and historic periods. The result is a detailed gazetteer spanning from Prehistory to the Modern Age, offering both a record of these discoveries and a framework for future research directions and questions.
The publication begins with an introduction to the functions, roles, and remit of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage as Malta’s cultural heritage regulator. This chapter emphasises development-led archaeological investigations, exploring the multidisciplinary processes involved in excavation, storage, conservation, research, and valorisation within the broader cultural heritage sector.
Subsequent chapters are organised chronologically, with each focusing on key periods:
- the Quaternary and Temple Periods
- the Punic and Roman periods
- the Medieval Period
- the Early Modern Period, the British Period, and the Second World War.
The penultimate chapter examines the evolving landscape of the Maltese Islands, while the concluding chapter synthesises the findings and highlights new research questions emerging from this work.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage: 20 Years of Discovery 2003–2022 is available from the Superintendence Offices and is set to become an essential reference for future archaeological research in Malta. It would surely make a wonderful gift for any cultural heritage enthusiast.
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