New green space inaugurated at the Ħal Tarxien prehistoric complex

Heritage Malta, in collaboration with The Alfred Mizzi Foundation, has inaugurated a new garden at the Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex. This initiative enhances the UNESCO World Heritage Site by combining cultural and natural heritage.

A field at the back of the Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex has been transformed into a garden accessible by the public visiting this site, which besides cultural heritage will now offer a brighter natural environment. Nine hundred trees and plants have been accurately selected – they are indigenous to the Maltese countryside, including some which, after scientific studies, have been confirmed as having grown in Malta during Neolithic times.

This project was made possible through the generous sponsorship of The Alfred Mizzi Foundation, which this year is celebrating its twentieth anniversary. The sponsorship also included an earlier initiative at the site, the Ġnien Dinja Waħda garden. Heritage Malta complemented the sponsorship by constructing a new boundary wall along the back of the prehistoric complex that ensures the preservation of the site and provides a better environment for the neighbourhood as well as a peaceful space for visitors.

The Tarxien Prehistoric Complex holds a vital place in Malta’s late Neolithic and early Bronze Age history. Discovered in 1913, the site is laid out in a particularly intricate layout with monumental architecture and houses the largest collection of Neolithic artefacts found on the island.

Kenneth Gambin, Chief Operations Officer at Heritage Malta, commented: “This garden provides a beautiful complement to the site’s prehistoric significance, creating an enriched visitor experience that bridges heritage and nature.”

Anthony Scicluna, Deputy Chairman of Heritage Malta, emphasized: “This project is a clear demonstration of what collaboration can achieve. Together with The Alfred Mizzi Foundation we have enhanced one of Malta’s most important heritage sites.”

Julian Sammut, Chairman of The Alfred Mizzi Foundation, remarked: “We are very pleased to continue supporting Heritage Malta’s efforts in safeguarding our cultural and natural heritage. This fits perfectly with the foundation’s mission to protect our heritage and embellish our environment. This garden will render a visit to these magnificent temples even more enjoyable and makes them more attractive to children and families.”

This new garden underscores the Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex’s role as a landmark of Maltese heritage, offering visitors a space to reflect on the island’s rich history while enjoying its natural beauty.