Left: Lateral view of the Hypogeum produced from the computer model; centre: The relative humidity inside the Hypogeum obtained from the computer model; right: The temperature variations inside the Hypogeum obtained from the computer model.
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is one of only three World Heritage Sites that are found in Malta. Located in Paola, it consists of a subterranean network of inter-connected chambers and passageways that date back to the period 4000 - 2500 B.C. The memory of its existence faded with time only to be discovered towards the beginning of the 20th Century. However, by the time the discovery was reported to the authorities, the site had already been exposed to typical urbanisation related problems such as seepage of water from water supplies, sewers and irrigation of gardens surrounding the site. The subsequent extensive use of the site as a touristic attraction continued to exacerbate its precarious conservation status. Consequently, the Hypogeum has been subjected to numerous conservation studies aimed at preserving the site for future generations.
One of the latest initiatives was an intensive multidisciplinary study carried out by integrating multiple investigative approaches. The effort was led by Dr Pierre-Sandre Farrugia, currently a member of staff within the Department of Geosciences, together with Mr Denis Cutajar and Professor Alfred Micallef, who is also currently a member of staff within the same department. The study was carried out in collaboration with Heritage Malta.
The research included the development of a 3D computer model of the Hypogeum, capable of predicting how the air flows within the site. The model can be used to investigate how external factors, such as the presence of people or the change in the ventilation system, can affect parameters that are linked to the deterioration of the site without the need of in situ experiments. Thus, the effect of any planned intervention can be studied prior to implementation.
A synthesis of the work carried out has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Cultural Heritage, which is one of the most prestigious international journals dedicated to techniques involved in the conservation of cultural heritage. The details can be found at the following link.
An animated 3D video showing particle motion inside the complex can be viewed online.
The work was partially funded by the Strategic Educational Pathways Scholarship (Malta). This scholarship was part-financed by the European Union European Social Fund (ESF) under Operational Programme II Cohesion Policy 2007-2013, “Empowering People for More Jobs and a Better Quality of Life”. The procurement of the 3D model of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, as well as environmental monitoring equipment, was supported by a grant from Norway through the Norwegian Financial Mechanism as part of the project MT0014 – Conservation of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum World Heritage Site. The analysis of data obtained from such equipment, collected from May 2011 to May 2012, was also supported by the same grant. The purchase of further equipment and study was supported by Evolve Ltd, Eltek and Tobit Curteis Associates.
