Ancient Maltese Temples: Schools for Celestial Navigation?

Quick Summary

• Historical Meaning: Several 5000-year-old Maltese temples, constructed between 3800 and 2300 BC, show alignments with specific stars. it is hypothesized that these structures could have served as early schools for celestial navigation.
• Architecture: these seven temple complexes are notable as some of the earliest megalithic constructions, made from large stones weighing several tonnes.
• Speculation on Functionality: Researchers widely agree that the temples exhibit characteristic features tied to ritualistic behavior but propose their alignment may have had educational purposes for navigational training.

Image: Ħaġar qim temple complex in southern Malta (Credit: Felix Choo / Alamy stock Photo).