The Ancient Colours of Malta: Unveiled by ARTE

Ever wondered what the ancient temples of Malta looked like in their prime? Were they the stark white we see today, or did they once burst with vibrant colours? A new documentary by ARTE, ‘The Colour of Antiquity’, sheds light on this intriguing question, and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in Malta’s rich history.

Unlocking the Past: ARTE’s New Documentary

‘The Colour of Antiquity’ is a captivating journey into the past, exploring the use of colour in ancient cultures across Europe. The documentary, produced by ARTE France and ARTE Germany, delves into the architectural heritage of various regions, including our very own Malta.

The documentary is part of ARTE’s ‘European Stories’ series, which aims to explore the shared history and cultural heritage of Europe. It’s a fascinating reminder that while our islands may be small, our story is intricately woven into the mix European history.

Malta’s Ancient Colours: A Local Perspective

For Malta, the documentary offers a unique opportunity to explore our ancient past through a new lens. The programme focuses on the Ġgantija Temples in Xagħra, Gozo, and the Mnajdra Temples in Qrendi, providing a glimpse into the vibrant world of our Neolithic ancestors.

Dr. Anthony Bonanno, a local archaeologist, was consulted for the documentary. He explains, “The use of colour was not just decorative, but held symbolic significance. It was a way for our ancestors to connect with the divine and express their beliefs.”

Bringing History to Life: The Science Behind the Colours

‘The Colour of Antiquity’ uses cutting-edge scientific techniques to bring ancient colours back to life. Researchers analysed pigments found on ancient walls and artefacts, reconstructing the original colour schemes using advanced software.

The results are astonishing. The Ġgantija Temples, for instance, were likely painted in earthy tones of red, orange, and brown, with intricate geometric patterns adorning their walls. The Mnajdra Temples, on the other hand, may have been a riot of colour, with bright reds, blues, and yellows contrasting with the natural stone.

But how did these colours survive the test of time? The answer lies in the unique microclimate of the temples, which has protected the pigments from the elements for thousands of years.

Dr. Bonanno adds, “This documentary is not just about colours. It’s about challenging our perceptions of the past and finding new ways to understand our ancestors. It’s a testament to the power of science and art to bring history to life.”

Watching ‘The Colour of Antiquity’ in Malta

If you’re in Malta, you can catch ‘The Colour of Antiquity’ on ARTE’s website or on their app. The documentary is available in both English and French, with subtitles in several languages, including Maltese.

But why not make a day of it? Visit the Ġgantija Temples in Gozo and the Mnajdra Temples in Qrendi. Stand where our ancestors stood, and imagine the temples bathed in their original glory. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with our past in a whole new way.

As Dr. Bonanno says, “History is not just something that happened in the past. It’s a living, breathing part of who we are today. And every now and then, we get a glimpse of that. This documentary is one of those glimpses.”