Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1538719
5 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 22 AUGUST 2025 NEWS SUMMERIN GOZO JULY - SEPTEMBER '25 FOR PROGRAMME SCAN QR CODE FLIMKIEN Ghal Ambjent Ahjar (FAA) is hosting an Ar- chaeology Walk & Talk on 23 August to raise public aware- ness on the need to safeguard the Santa Verna archaeological landscape in Xagħra. The NGO said that despite these warnings, "no protective measures were implement- ed, prompting activists to now launch a parliamentary petition aimed at preserving the site." Santa Verna, which dates back to 5000 BCE, forms part of a wider archaeological network that includes Ġgantija, the Xagħra Circle, In-Nuffara Hill, and various prehistoric burial sites. Its soils contain unique traces of prehistoric life, in- cluding DNA, seeds, pollen, and artefacts—resources that are ir- retrievably lost once disturbed. "Threats to the site are mounting as residential and infrastructure development continues to encroach, includ- ing plans for houses, swimming pools, and roads. Some projects are even cutting into the des- ignated protective buffer zone. In a nearby area, Ta' Lablab, a prehistoric children's burial was partially bulldozed before residents discovered human remains, highlighting the risks to Malta's fragile heritage," the NGO said. The FAA said the petition is demanding that the govern- ment issue an Emergency Con- servation Order, implement independent monitoring, and commission a full public study of Santa Verna. The event which will take place on 23 August at 5 pm, be- ginning at the viewpoint near Xagħra Cemetery. Speakers include Sandra Gauci (ADPD), Arnold Cassola (Momentum), and Luke Said (PN), with Dawn Adrian Saliba (Malta Arch) leading the walk. FAA is urging the public to back the petition and partici- pate in the event to help protect Santa Verna before it is lost for- ever. FAA hosts archaeology walk to promote protection of Santa Verna landscape Santa Verna temple