Tore Lomsdalen, 'Sky and Purpose in Prehistoric Malta: Sun, Moon and Stars at the Temples of Mnajdra'

A groundbreaking study by Tore Lomsdalen refines our understanding of the astronomical alignments at the Neolithic megalithic temples of Mnajdra, Malta. Unlike previous research that identified general associations between celestial events and these structures, Lomsdalen's work pinpoints specific solar, lunar, and stellar alignments linked to particular architectural elements within the complex. This deep-dive approach, focusing on a single monument, allows for intricate analysis of each 'room' in Mnajdra, providing unprecedented precision in interpreting the purpose and function of these ancient sites. Lomsdalen's findings challenge the notion that Malta's megaliths were merely passive observers of celestial phenomena, suggesting instead a deliberate and sophisticated integration of astronomical knowledge into their design.

Barrowclough, D. (2015). Tore Lomsdalen, ‘Sky and Purpose in Prehistoric Malta: Sun, Moon and Stars at the Temples of Mnajdra’. Journal of Skyscape Archaeology, 1(1), 155–157. https://doi.org/10.1558/jsa.v1i1.26963