Roman Villa

This archaeological site was discovered during works on the foundations of the new government school in the 1960s.  Later on, between 1970 and 1976, further excavation of the site by a number of archaeologists revealed a residential complex and tools used in the production of olive oil.

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The industrial area connected to olive pressing and oil production. The stone vat is one of the agro-industrial implements found on site.
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A portable olive press found during the archaeological excavations.

Because of the direct link between this archaeological site and the processing of olive oil, one can understand the great importance that this site has in the history of Żejtun.  In fact, the name Żejtun is none other than the name of the fruit which is pressed to yield the oil.

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A view of the villa remains with the residential quarters on the right and the agro-industrial area on the left.

This site is still being excavated and studied by archaeology students of the Department of Archaeology and Classics at the University of Malta.

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Archaeological excavations carried out by students of archaeology from the Department of Classics and Archaeology of the University of Malta, as part of their summer field camp.

Old Photographs

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Early excavations from the 1970s.
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Museums Department archaeologists on site in the early 1970s.

3D Digital Reconstruction of the Zejtun Roman Villa

Note: This model is at its planning stage and will be available for viewing in the coming months.

 

The Olive Oil production during the Roman times – Animation

Note: This animation is at its planning stage and will be available for viewing in the coming months.

 

Other places of interest in close proximity:

Chapel of St Nicholas

Military Observation Post

The Luogotent’s Garden

Neo-Classical House

(Old) Parish Church of St. Catherine

Location Map