San Pawl Milqi, Burmarrad, Malta – presentation of a multi-cultural site in a changing landsacpe

Abstract

San Pawl Milqi is found in the north-eastern part of the island of Malta next to Salina bay and overlooking Burmarrad valley. The site was originally situated on an important harbour that is now silted, and was surrounded by agricultural land. The area is rich in archaeological remains belonging to different periods. The boundary wall of the multi-cultural site incorporates an area of approximately 4000 m2. Within this area there is evidence of prehistoric settlement, punic farmhouse, a rural villa belonging to the end of the 2nd century B.C. and evidence of a later period from the 1st to the 11th century A.D. There is evidence that at least two churches were constructed on site. The potential and value of San Pawl Milqi is historical and archaeological, scientific, didactic, social and religious and most importantly a very good example of an ever changing cultural landscape. Recently there have been attempts in studying the environment of the archaeological remains that are exposed together with the environment of the archaeological remains that are underneath the existing structure of the church. A conservation plan for the site was also being set up that was intended to lead to the presentation of the site to be public due to a museographical project.