Geoheritage assessment in Northern Malta (Mediterranean Sea) as a tool for geoconservation and tourism promotion

Abstract

The Maltese Archipelago, which lies in the central Mediterranean Sea, has a long and rich history of cultural heritage, rooted in the presence of ancient civilizations on the archipelago due to their strategic location. Additionally, over the past five decades, the Maltese Islands have rapidly developed into a popular tourist destination, especially sought after for outdoor activities such as sun-bathing, diving, hiking, climbing and countryside walking. These activities have particularly developed in the northern part of mainland Malta, encouraged by the presence impressive coastal cliffs, bays and sandy beaches with clear marine waters, which create breathtaking topographies nestled in a pristine natural landscape. [Excerpt]