The University of Malta unveiled results from the project, "Evaluating Shelters over Megalithic Temples," during a presentation to Heritage Malta staff at the 摩a摹ar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park Visitors Centre on October 31, 2023. The presentation was well attended, including the welcome presence of the Chairman and COO, managers, curators, conservators and conservation architects.
The primary objective of this pioneering project is to shed light on the behaviour of protective shelters over the Megalithic Temples, while meticulously studying deterioration processes and site-specific environmental conditions. The research employs a fusion of cutting-edge methodologies, including non-invasive analysis of materials and deterioration products, supported by laboratory analyses and Computational Fluid Dynamics Modelling, seamlessly integrated with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
Leading this innovative endeavor is r from the , , who serves as the project leader. , from the , also within the Faculty for the Buit Environment, is also participating in this project along with Research Support Officers , and . The recent presentation was a glimpse into the project's early findings, aimed at providing the managers and curators, architects and conservators, of these fragile archaeological sites with invaluable scientific insights. These insights will play a crucial role in guiding future decisions related to preventive conservation, ensuring the longevity and preservation of these extraordinary cultural treasures.
This project is the embodiment of collaboration, bringing together various departments within the University of Malta. The Department of Conservation & Built Heritage and the Department of Environmental Design, which fall under the Faculty for the Built Environment, and the from the have united their expertise to embark on this multidisciplinary journey. The Institute for Sustainable Energy has also supported wind measurements on site. The strong collaboration with Heritage Malta, which curates the site, is fundamental to the project, as is the financial support from the Ministry for Finance and Employment. The participants have also secured further funding for a new project entitled Environmental of Malta's Megalithic Temples (MEGALITH) under the MCST Research Excellence Programme. This will be announced shortly.
