This document explores the cultural links between China and Malta in archaeology, architecture, and astronomy. Both countries have a rich history in architecture spanning over 5,000 years, as seen in their monumental structures like temples, palaces, and the Great Wall of China. They also share a long tradition of archaeological research and discovery. Additionally, both China and Malta have engaged in astronomical observation and developed calendars since ancient times, using temples as observatories. Overall, the document outlines the significant cultural connections between the two places through their shared histories in these three domains.

1. Cultural Links between China and
Malta
A Brief Introduction
R Evans

2. Introduction
Three themes will be explored in the
presentation namely:
Archaeology
Architecture
Astronomy

3. Historical Context
Both countries have a:
 distinctive and rich history in architecture
with their own distinctive styles and
designs.
 in astronomy going back over 5,000 years.
- and as a result a rich archaeological history
which will form a fascinating cultural link
between the two countries.

4. Architecture
Two forms of architecture can be identified namely:
 Monumental Structures: Temples. City plans.
Churches. Padagoes and Palaces.
 Domestic/Vernacular/Residential.
Building materials reflect local geological/rock
formations with stone being the prevalent
building material in Malta.
Wood is dominate material in temples in China
to combat damage from earth quakes and
extreme weather. Stone and brick also used
extensively in other structures in China e.g. the
Great Wall.

5. Archaeology:
Both countries are aware of their rich archaeological
history and have a long tradition in both countries of
archaeological research with much more to discover
and explain.
Key individuals:
Liang Sicheng and Themistocles Zammit.
This is one reason why stronger cultural links in these
areas would be beneficial to both countries and
further enrich the existing cultural links.

6. Astronomy:
Both countries have a very long and distinguished
history in astronomical observation dating back over
5,000 years.
Developed to gain a greater understanding of the
earth and beyond, the seasons and the creation of
calendars. In addition the temples were used as
astronomical observatories especially in Malta using
particular astronomical alignments.
China established separate observatories. These
observatories in China were often used to elevate and
celebrate the importance on the dynasties and
emperors.
Temples in both countries used for religious rituals
including animal sacrifices.

7. Images of Monumental Structures Malta
Mdina City
Mnajdra temple with an inlaid female idol:
Ggantija temples Gozo:

8. View of Mnjadra Temples

9. Images of Monumental Structures China
Plan of Forbidden City: Forbidden City Temple:
The Great Wall: Denfeng Observatory:

10. Observatory
Observatory in Beijing built 1442.

11. References
• Malta’s Temples. K. Albrecht. ISBN 978-3-934858-15-2. Sven Nather Verlag
Potsdam 2007.
• Malta Prehistory and Temples. D. Trump MidseaBooksLtd.
• The Neolithic Temples. Heritage Malta. ISBN 978-99932-6649-5. 2013.
• Science and Civilisation in China. J. Needham. Volume 3. CUP. 1970.
• History of Chinese Architecture an excellent CCTV 9 Documentary.