Heritage Malta has paid tribute to Colin Renfrew, the British archaeologist who was the first to identify the Maltese megalithic sites as the oldest buildings in the world.

He passed away on Sunday 24th November, at the age of 87.

Prof. Lord Renfrew was a pre-eminent archaeologist of prehistoric civilisations who helped pioneer a cognitive approach to the field, playing a crucial role in shaping archaeology.

Renfrew is renowned for his contributions across numerous areas, but his pioneering work on radiocarbon dating holds particular significance for the Maltese Islands.  

“In 1973, Prof. Lord Renfrew published ‘Before Civilisation: The Radiocarbon Revolution and Prehistoric Europe whereby applying calibrations to radiocarbon dates retrieved at various archaeological sites brought a revolution in our understanding of prehistory,” Heritage Malta shared.

Through this study, Prof. Lord Renfrew recognised the significance in the development of the Maltese sites.

“We remain indebted to his perception and understanding to this very day,” concluded the National Agency.

Main Image: UNESCO World Heritage Centre