Sheltering megalithic Temples in Malta – evaluating the process through data collection and modelling

Sheltering structures implemented at three UNESCO-listed megalithic temples in Malta—Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and Tarxien—have shown promise in mitigating environmental stressors such as rainfall, surface weathering, and thermal stress. A decade-long research program, combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling with long-term environmental monitoring, aims to quantify the shelters' effectiveness. By integrating macroscale regional models with mesoscale temple-specific analyses, researchers seek to establish correlations between environmental conditions and material deterioration patterns. This approach offers potential for targeted conservation strategies, though findings remain ongoing.

Valantinavicius, M., Micallef, D., Cassar, J., Caruana, J., & Ciantelli, C. (2020). Sheltering megalithic Temples in Malta – evaluating the process through data collection and modelling. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 949(1), 12035. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/949/1/012035