IL SANTUARIO DI RAS IL-WARDIJA: LA PRIMA CAMPAGNA DI SCAVI 2021 DELLA MISSIONE ARCHEOLOGICA A GOZO DELL’UNIVERSITÀ DI ROMA «LA SAPIENZA»

The promontory of Ras il-Wardija, on the northwestern cusp island Gozo, holds one most spectacular temples ancient Mediterranean dedicated to Phoenician goddess Astarte, Great Goddess sailors. Phoenician-Punic sanctuary il-Wardija dates 4thcentury BC and hosts an important cult Hera/Juno throughout Roman period (3rd century BC-2ndcentury AD). Since its construction, it was main sanctuaries along sea-route called “Route Islands” connecting East West Mediterranean. general plan has been clarified by excavations Italian Expedition that operated in site between 1963-1967. However, a further investigation structures with respect territory behind it, deep analysis rites cults worshipped sanctuary, overall chronology are still missing. Sapienza University, thanks new agreement Heritage Malta Superintendence Cultural Malta, collaboration University resumed research activities at pursuing study following paths, including environment landscape