European Heritage Days 2024 – The British and their influence on Maltese Natural History

Join us on Tuesday, 8th October 2024, for an engaging lecture by Senior Curator John J. Borg at the National Museum of Natural History in Mdina. Titled “The Role of the British in Advancing Knowledge of Malta’s Natural History – 1800 to Present”, this talk will explore how British influence has shaped our understanding of the island’s biodiversity.

At the dawn of the 19th century, when the British took control of Malta, opinions were divided – some locals welcomed them, while many intellectuals identified more closely with Italian cultural ties. This divide extended into the natural sciences, where British and local naturalists often operated in isolation. British naturalists, with few exceptions, rarely engaged with their Maltese counterparts, many of whom published their work in Italian, further widening the gap.

Despite this, various British figures – governors, clergy, military officers, surgeons, and others – contributed significantly to the study of Malta’s flora and fauna. They visited remote areas like Filfla and the surrounding islets, producing a wealth of scientific papers, often without acknowledging local contributions.

In this public lecture, Heritage Malta’s Senior Curator for Natural History will guide us through the stories of these soldiers, sailors, teachers, and naturalists, illustrating how their work has shaped the understanding and preservation of Malta’s unique natural heritage.

The lecture starts at 18:00. Admission is free, but seating is limited. Reserve your spot online here Store – Heritage Malta or at any Heritage Malta museum or site.