Bulebel punic tombs essential part of history and culture - AD

lesley kreupl

Dec 31st 2008, 20:13

Apart from preserving these wonderful archeological gems for the benefit of the Maltese and Gozitans and of course future generations - which is of prime importance - when will the government and the Tourist Authority realize that Malta is sitting on a goldmine for archeological tourism? When will they take steps to preserve relics which are deteriorating in fields? When will they stop issuing permits for ODZ development? The list is endless!

DO SOMETHING NOW BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!

Jesmond Micallef

Dec 31st 2008, 17:36

Such archeological finds on Malta must be protected and preserved. They provide invaluable insights into early civilisations not just to the native Maltese people but also to the rest of the world. One can argue that Malta has a problem of space, but with very carefull thought, such finds may be integrated into the island's built environment such as that recommended by S.Bugeja. The Maltese Islands and the Maltese have a very very unique character and such archeology is part of that identity, considering how small in size the islands are. The University of Malta may provide comprehensive support on possible solutions since both the Department of Architecture (the Current Built Environment) and Department of Archeology (the Former Built Environment) can jointly propose to the building industry in Malta. Thus preserving the heritage of this unique group of islands. Remember, such finds are evidence of early settlements otherwise known as CIVILISATIONS.

David Pisani

Dec 31st 2008, 17:35

MEPA can lead by example and declare the site of archeological importance. Hope that they don't list the findings of a lower grade. Conservation of such sites should be a priority.

Well done AD!

s.bugeja

Dec 31st 2008, 16:50

It may not be possible to relocate a hospital but with some thought it is possible to integrate these archaeological remains in the plans . once the decision is taken to destroy them it is irrevocable and posterity will remember the persons responsible as the ones who demolished part of our history and heritage. We are still in time to make the right choice. Go ahead Josie, get into the good books of all those who love and cherish our legacy. other countries would give anything to have what we've got.

James A. Tyrrell

Dec 31st 2008, 16:47

I have to agree with everyone here. These tombs need to be preserved and studied for the sake of generations to come. A hospital is tomorrow and can be built anytime and anywhere. These tombs are yesterday and yesterday is the one thing we cannot build.

philip pace

Dec 31st 2008, 16:38

Right on Arnold!

N Cassar

Dec 31st 2008, 16:10

Malta is full of priceless treasures, which sometimes we don't even appreciate ourselves. I hope that common sense will prevail and these tombs will not be destroyed.
If another country finds tombs such as these, they are made into museums and major tourist attractions.
Stenbhu Maltin ghal patrimonju kbir li ghandna!!

cccamillieri

Dec 31st 2008, 15:54

In his uncalled for explanation about the acquisition of this site in an other English paper Dr. Josie Muscat failed to mention that the site is outside development zone and the findings of the punic tombs

cccamillieri

Dec 31st 2008, 15:21

We are to the same old game. Exceptions that will never stop and become the rule. Why are we allowing this site to be built since it is designated as outside development zone. Why??????
Now what stops others from applying for sites outside development zones? And how is Mepa to justify their refusals. The owner of this new hospital has been critical of this Govt in the past for abuses. . Will he stop his criticism now? Is this the new Mepa we were promised? The credibility of the Govt is here at stake.

Justin Meli

Dec 31st 2008, 15:20

@charles micallef

i hope your comment is sarcastic , i dont see how someone would even think about integrating something of this value into an other project. our heritage must be protected and we must respect it . needles to say many of our heritage is poorly kept . we must also remember that some of our temples are UNIQUE in the whole world..these sites should be one of malta`s prides and a source for tourism

A.Saliba

Dec 31st 2008, 15:04

These are the common heritage of mankind

Well done AD

lgalea

Dec 31st 2008, 15:03

STOP DESTRUCTING OUR HERITAGE.
JOSIE MUSCAT CAN BUILD HIS HOSPITAL SOMEWHERE ELSE.

Joe Xuereb (London UK)

Dec 31st 2008, 14:51

The building over these tombs should not even cross anyone's mind. It is not even remotely negotiable. I have not seen them. Where is Bulebel? I will go there on my knees it that is what it takes. Hands off! These tombs belong to me, and you, and you, and you.

s.bugeja

Dec 31st 2008, 14:39

I think that the fact that the tombs are said to be not fully intact is just an excuse for when the result of the evaluation comes out in favour of burying them under the proposed hospital.

Charles Micallef

Dec 31st 2008, 14:31

I am sure that they can be intergrated as part of the project as happened with Dolmen and other such sites !

Raymond Sammut

Dec 31st 2008, 14:20

@ Prof. Cassola

It is not an opportunity. It is an obligation and a duty towards Maltese children and to posterity.

Sense should prevail.

A new building can be re-located, but punic tombs would be lost for ever. And I would think that thorough investigation, backed by the latest technology, would reveal more than tombs. It is hard to imagine how these tombs can possibly be devoid of everything.

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Dec 31st 2008, 14:01

Dear Mr. Cassola

Do you recall what happened to the archeological finds on the site of the new American embassy?

Need I say more?