The Tarxien Temples: A Testament to Malta’s Prehistoric Civilization
The Tarxien Temples, located in Tarxien, Malta, represent a significant archaeological complex that dates back to approximately 3150 BC. These temples were recognized for their historical and cultural importance in 1992 when they were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside other Megalithic temples on the island.
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Description of the Temples
The complex comprises three main temple structures that are connected, with the primary entrance being a reconstruction from 1956, a period during which the site underwent extensive restoration. To preserve the integrity of the decorated slabs found at the site, many were moved to the Museum of Archaeology in Valletta for protection. The first temple, dating to around 3100 BC, stands out for its elaborate decorations, making it the most intricately adorned among Malta’s temples. The middle temple, unique for its three pairs of apses as opposed to the usual two, dates to about 3000 BC. The east temple, like the first, dates to around 3100 BC. Additionally, the remnants of an older, smaller temple dated to 3250 BC can be observed towards the east of the complex.
The Tarxien Temples are renowned for their exquisite stonework, which includes reliefs of domestic animals, altars, and screens adorned with spiral designs and other motifs. A notable feature is a chamber between the South and Central temples, showcasing a relief of a bull and a sow, indicative of the builders’ craftsmanship.
Function in Prehistory
Archaeological excavations have revealed that the Tarxien Temples were extensively used for ritual purposes, likely involving animal sacrifices. Stone rollers found outside the South temple suggest their use in transporting megaliths. Furthermore, evidence of cremation discovered at the center of the South temple indicates that the site was repurposed as a Bronze Age cremation cemetery.
Discovery and History
The discovery of the Tarxien Temples in 1914 by local farmers led to an excavation led by Themistocles Zammit, the director of the National Museum. This excavation, which began immediately upon Zammit’s inspection of the site, unveiled a significant prehistoric complex. By 1920, Zammit had uncovered and conducted restoration on five interconnected temples, unearthing a wealth of artifacts, including the notable “fat lady” statue, which is considered a representation of a Mother Goddess or a fertility charm. A selection of artifacts from the site was donated to the British Museum in 1923, and the temples were listed on the Antiquities List of 1925. Post-World War II excavations were carried out under J.G. Baldacchino.
In 2015, protective tent-like shelters were erected around the Tarxien Temples to safeguard them from environmental damage, similar to the protective measures taken at other Megalithic temple sites in Malta.
Significance
The discovery of the Tarxien Temples has played a crucial role in shaping Malta’s national identity by confirming the presence of an advanced ancient civilization on the island. The excavation and subsequent interest in the site have fostered a public awareness and concern for the preservation of Malta’s historical treasures. The meticulous approach adopted by Themistocles Zammit in excavating the site marked a significant advancement in the scientific methodology of archaeology, setting a precedent for future archaeological endeavors.
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The last figure with the square openings is a whistle. Figures in foreground show the air movement. The stopper was controlled by the priest at his control.