A skeleton of a young woman who lived in Malta around 2,000 years ago is set to be reconstructed.

Skeleton 248 was discovered at St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat during excavations between 2010 and 2015, and contains the most complete of the very few skulls found at the site.

The remains belong to a young woman, aged between 19 and 25, who may have suffered from a degenerative joint disease.

Heritage Malta and the Eden Leisure Foundation are now collaborating on the scientific analysis and full-body reconstruction of the skeleton, building on earlier facial reconstruction research by a team at the University of Palermo.

Ancient DNA analysis, carbon dating, and isotope studies, alongside high-resolution 3D scanning, are currently underway to support the initiative.

The full-body forensic reconstruction is being carried out by the Kennis Brothers, internationally recognised for their work on figures such as Ötzi the Iceman and the Tollund Man, and is expected to be completed within four years.

Besides the skeleton, the reconstruction will also focus on artefacts unearthed from the burial, including pottery vessels and personal items such as a face-shaped pendant, a bronze netting needle, a bone hairpin found behind the skull, and a glass unguentarium placed beside her head.

Together, they shape a more personal story, which the reconstruction seeks to translate into a visual and relatable form.

Once finalised, this life-size model will form part of an enhanced visitor experience at St Paul’s Catacombs, a site that was recently awarded the European Heritage Label.

Heritage Malta CEO Noel Zammit, lauded this project and emphasised the beauty of science and history combining as one.

Eden Leisure Foundation Chairperson Kate De Cesare said the project perfectly aligns with the Foundation’s mission.

“We are passionate about supporting initiatives that preserve Malta’s heritage while making it more meaningful and accessible to the public,” she said.

“The opportunity to help reveal the story of someone who lived here 2,000 years ago through the latest scientific techniques is both fascinating and deeply significant.”

“Having worked with Heritage Malta on previous projects, we have seen first-hand the care, professionalism and expertise they bring to every initiative, and we are proud to support them once again in bringing another important chapter of Malta’s history to life.”