The Ġgantija archaeological site in Gozo is an ancient boutique hotel and not a temple as previously believed, according to a study commissioned by developers who have been granted permission to build apartments in the area.
The developers’ findings were presented to the Planning Authority during a hearing on Monday, which resulted in the PA board giving the green light to developers to build a block of 22 apartments – named Ġgantija Heights – less than 200 metres away from the ‘temple’.
“According to the rigorous, completely unbiased research carried out by an archaeologist we paid, the Ġgantija site is not a religious structure, but one of the first known attempts at creating small capacity, high-end accommodation catering to discerning tourists looking for a more personalised touch,” applicant Emmanuel Farrugia told the board.
Farrugia stated that the ancient hotel – thought to have been built between 3600 and 3200 BC – would have accommodated as few as 20 wealthy Neolithic tourists, who most likely would have sailed over from nearby Sicily to enjoy a weekend break surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
“While the facilities would be thought of as crude by today’s standards, there’s no mistaking the tell-tale signs of prehistoric luxury. Each semi-circular hotel room had its own hearth, while what has up until this point been termed a ritual chamber was in fact a spa and aromatherapy centre.
The developer said the statues and animal bones found across the site during its excavation most likely originated from the hotel’s gift shop.
“Therefore, not only does the Ġgantija Heights project not clash with its surroundings, but it’s actually in keeping with the site’s historical purpose. Being the guardian of Gozo’s heritage is a heavy burden, but one I will gladly take up,” Farrugia said.
“Sounds legit,” replied PA Chairman Emmanuel Camilleri before recommending approval.
After the meeting, the developer speculated that Ġgantija might not be the only historical site whose purpose has been misunderstood.
“Could it be that the Hypogeum was actually an ancient underground cart-park? Should we perhaps restore it to its proper function? I think I’ll put in an application and try my luck,” he said.
Meanwhile, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Technical Committee, which had previously expressed serious concerns regarding the Ġgantija plans, released the following statement:
“Fuck it – we’ve given up on you morons. Do what the hell you want.”
