Cultural Links between China and Malta

A Brief IntroductionR Evans

IntroductionThree themes will be explored in the presentation namely:

Archaeology

Architecture

Astronomy

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.

ArchitectureTwo 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.

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.

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.

Images of Monumental Structures Malta

Mdina CityMnajdra temple with an inlaid female idol:

Ggantija temples Gozo:

View of Mnjadra Temples

Images of Monumental Structures ChinaPlan of Forbidden City: Forbidden City Temple:

The Great Wall: Denfeng Observatory:

ObservatoryObservatory in Beijing built 1442.

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.