2,000-year-old temple floor discovered at Malta's Tas-Silġ excavations

The floor of a temple dating back to prehistoric times was uncovered in ongoing excavation works at Tas-Silġ, the Culture Ministry said.

Credit: Heritage Malta

In a statement, it said the 2,000-year-old floor of the Temple of Ashtart was uncovered in a 'farmhouse' with various remains at the site.

The removal of the farmhouse floors have uncovered a series of floors and preparation layers, the ministry said.

Credit: Heritage Malta

"The site at Tas-Silg contains the remains of over 4,000 years of structures, most of which were used for religious purposes," Culture Minister Owen Bonnici said.

The Temple of Ashtart was made famous by Roman senator and orator Cicero when made reference to it in a prosecution speech against Caius Verres.

Credit: Heritage Malta

Along the years, both the Missione Archeologica a Malta and the Department of Classics and Archaeology of the University of Malta have conducted extensive excavations at this site.

A 'farmhouse' located on the site is being restored and will be turned into a visitor centre equipped with digital interpretations.