First, the paleo-Christian hypogea called Għar Gerduf have be to be made safe before both locals and tourists can enjoy its beauty again.

Saved from ruin

The ancient ruins in Kerċem were under threat by new development when excavation works for a two-storey house planned to be built in front of the catacombs began in 2017. Thankfully, after continued pressure by local advocates, Malta's Planning Authority revoked the planning permission, sparing the area around the catacombs from development! Now, part of the area around and above the catacombs is being expropriated, and 766 square metres are now being officially protected for the enjoyment of future generations. Score!

Still, the catacombs may not be fully out of the woods yet. NGO Wirt Għawdex is concerned that an area in front of the catacombs is still privately owned, therefore making it vulnerable to possible development in the future. The NGO is now calling for Government to protect as much of the area around the historical site as possible, asking that no construction take place around the site until a full archaeological investigation has taken place.

Local historians say the catacombs are of crucial importance to Malta’s late Roman and early Christian periods, and despite being vandalised over the years, still have huge significance. 

Some experts believe there may even be underground spaces beneath the existing floor, which could house Roman baths, while an ancient Church could lie buried in the vicinity.

Here’s hoping those doors open soon, so we can get a closer look!