It’s a sad day as news comes out that the archeological site known as Tal-Qares in Mosta, just a few metres on from LIDL, has been demolished to make way for a new development, including a showroom and apartments.

Temple Rescue Malta, a platform that raises awareness on lesser known Maltese archaeological sites, took to Facebook to announce the news. “Archaeologists have dated the site back to the Bronze Age. It has (had) several vine trenches, ancient quarries, plenty of ancient rock features, several water cisterns and water harvesting systems, and an extensive ancient wall built with large square stones.” Temple Rescue Malta also said that the site “offered a platform for various ecosystems to flourish.”

Temple Rescue Malta also reported that neighbouring fields show evidence of important Roman remains and pottery shards. This recent update has been making the rounds on social media, with various locals expressing their disgust at the loss of heritage Malta is experiencing – surely, too high a price to pay for a couple apartments and showrooms?

Such news makes us question whether our historical heritage will take precedent over development. Other sites around the island that also date back to the Bronze Age include:

1. Tarxien Temples

2. Borg in-Nadur near Birzebbugia

3. Ghar Mirdum in Dingli

4. Il-Wardija ta’ San Gorg in Dingli

5. Dolmens – altar-like structures made of very large slabs of stone

6. Menhir – upright stone (an example can be found in Kirkop)

7. Cart ruts at Clapham Junction and San Gwann

What do you think about the current Mosta sitch?