Archeologist
Reuben Grima, an Associate Professor at the Department of Conservation & Built Heritage at the University of Malta,
He speaks about Neolithic Malta and cultural heritage management, explores prehistoric water systems and their dual role in both ritual practices and sustenance. He discussed the archaeological methods employed to gather and analyze data, emphasizing the importance of understanding geological and hydrological factors. Grima also highlighted how interdisciplinary approaches, combining archaeology with anthropology, geology, and other fields, are crucial for uncovering the intricate relationship between ancient communities and their water sources.
Gardener
Wenzu Grima is a gardener with vast knowledge on local flora and agriculture. He spoke about the health benefits of particular grasses and traditional agricultural methods, including dry farming and why certain fruits and vegetables should be grown using this approach.
Archivist, Gozo Archives
John Cremona is the Assistant National Archivist in Gozo. He told us about water being mentioned in the documents of the national archives, mediaeval punishments for polluting main sources with dirty laundry and the joyful etymology of the island’s name- Gozo and Ghawdex.
Photographer
Daniel Cilia, a professional photographer, has spent much of his career documenting the cultural, archaeological, and artistic heritage of Malta and Gozo. In a recent interview, he discussed his explorations of the islands’ underground reservoirs and cisterns, bringing attention to a lesser-known aspect of Maltese history.
His work extends beyond photography, serving as a documentation of the islands’ historical narrative, with a particular focus on the water systems that are often overlooked. He shared personal experiences from his explorations, such as navigating through ancient water galleries and capturing these structures through his lens. Having grown up on the islands, his connection to Malta and Gozo informs his storytelling with a sense of familiarity and personal investment.
During the interview, he spoke about the importance of preserving these historical sites, not only for their visual appeal but also for their historical significance. He described the architectural features of the reservoirs and cisterns, noting how these functional structures were also crafted with attention to detail, reflecting the skill of past builders.
He also addressed broader issues, such as the effects of modern development on the environment and the significant role water has played in Maltese culture. His observations provided insight into how water, a basic necessity, has influenced the socio-economic and cultural development of the islands over time.
Overall, the interview combined his photographic work with his personal and historical knowledge, offering a perspective on Malta’s heritage and the importance of its water systems.
Stone Mason and Farmer
Toni Debono has been a stone mason for over 40 years. He explained the various forms of well and water storage systems in private homes and those built for agriculture.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Ercole Spiteri, a public health doctor in Gozo, discussed the importance of drinking water, particularly in hot climates. He emphasized the necessity of adequate hydration for kidney function and overall health, especially for the elderly. Dr. Spiteri highlighted the challenges posed by climate change, including the increased risk of Legionella infection due to higher temperatures facilitating bacterial growth in water systems. He described his daily routine, which involves monitoring infectious diseases, contact tracing, and advising on public health matters.
Dr. Spiteri also discussed the importance of water cleanliness, the risks associated with stagnant water in household plumbing, and the need for regular inspection and maintenance of water systems. He mentioned that while tap water in Malta and Gozo is generally safe, issues like high chlorine levels and the presence of biofilms in pipes can pose health risks.
Regarding swimming pools, Dr. Spiteri identified parasites such as Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba histolytica as common concerns, explaining that these parasites can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and are resistant to chlorine.
He concluded with personal reflections on water, sharing memories of the sea and discussing the historical significance of water in Gozo’s Citadel. The interview underscored the complexities of ensuring safe drinking water and the ongoing public health efforts to mitigate waterborne diseases.
Elderly Woman
Maria Mifsud, an elderly woman from Għarb, had a close relationship with the spiritual healer Frenċ ta’ l-Għarb, as they were next-door neighbors and he was her godfather. We spoke with Maria (in Maltese) about the traditional and spiritual practices related to plants and rituals used by Frenċ, including the religious significance of the water from the well in his home. She generously brought a sample of this water for the school.
Advisor: Pumping station and groundwater
George Micallef, a 66-year-old advisor at the Water Services Corporation in Gozo, provided a detailed recount of his professional journey and the challenges faced in water management. He began his career as an electronic technician before joining the Water Services Corporation in the early ’90s. His expertise transitioned from electronics to water services, where he managed groundwater, boreholes, and reverse osmosis systems.
Micallef described the evolution of water quality and distribution in Gozo, emphasizing improvements through polishing plants and the integration of reverse osmosis. He highlighted the shift from reliance on boreholes to advanced treatment plants, detailing the technical processes and challenges, including the impact of farming and urban development on groundwater.
He also shared his experiences with water quality monitoring, leak detection, and the significant role of technology and electricity in water management. His contributions, particularly in developing a polishing plant, marked a career highlight, showcasing his dedication to improving Gozo’s water infrastructure.
Engineer, the New Water section
Jake Diedo is an engineer with the Water Services Corporation in Malta, where he leads the New Water section. This innovative project is dedicated to converting treated sewage water into a high-quality resource for agricultural purposes, significantly reducing the reliance on Malta’s limited freshwater supplies. Farmers are the primary users of this “new water,” which is distributed through a network of over 650 dispensers across Malta and Gozo.
In his interview, Jake detailed the technical aspects of the filtration process, which involves multiple stages including ultraviolet (UV) treatment to ensure the water meets stringent safety standards. He discussed the current scale of the project, which already supports a significant portion of the island’s agricultural needs, and shared the team’s ambitions to expand the system further.
Jake also addressed the successes of the project, such as the positive reception from farmers who initially were skeptical of using treated sewage water but now rely on it heavily. However, he also acknowledged challenges, including issues of misuse where the water, provided at a minimal cost, is sometimes diverted for non-agricultural purposes. Despite these challenges, Jake remains focused on optimizing the system, including the integration of new technologies like solar-powered dispensers and fiber-optic communication for better monitoring and management.
Operations Manager for Water Network Operations in Gozo
Terry Caruana is an operations manager with the water services corporation in Gozo. Terry told us about the island’s distribution network, the common issues experienced, tools and technologies for maintenance, and how often the water workers get drained while performing repairs on the water distribution system.
Mechanical Engineer, Reverse Osmosis section
Ronald Pace, a mechanical engineer and manager at the Water Services Corporation, oversees the reverse osmosis (RO) plant and desalination activities in Malta. He discussed the crucial role of RO technology in providing the majority of Malta’s drinking water, given the island’s limited natural water resources. Pace explained the technical aspects of reverse osmosis, including the process of filtering seawater through sophisticated membranes to produce potable water, and the importance of energy efficiency in this process. He also touched on the challenges of maintaining the plant, the importance of teamwork, and the significance of planning and preparation to ensure a continuous water supply. Pace emphasized the need for public awareness about the complexities and efforts involved in delivering clean water to the island’s residents.
Regional Engineer
Charles Camilleri is a Regional Engineer with the Water Services Corporation in Gozo. He told us about the filtration process and distribution of water on the island. Charles emphasised the importance of rainwater collection and how the construction industry on the islands often neglects this vital resource.