New documents been have unveiled in a publication on the history of salt making in Malta, which presents a new history on the 40 salt pans which are located in different parts of Malta, Gozo and Comino.
There are 27 salt pans around Malta, 11 salt pans in Gozo [1] and two salt pans in Comino
Salt production was one of the main industries across the Maltese islands for hundreds of years.
It reached its apex during the rule of the Knights of St John when Maltese salt was exported across the European continent and was appreciated for its quality and taste.
Pauline Dingli, is the author of the new book – Salt Pans in Malta: A Study of Salt Pans and Salt Production in the Maltese Islands.
She remarked that, “most salt pans portray exceptional hard work and are still in good condition. I hope this publication creates a greater understanding of the salt-works tradition, the salt pans system of the Maltese islands and their significance as part of Malta’s impressive and cultural heritage.”
The book launch took place at the Salini Salt Pans, the largest system of salt pans across the Maltese islands, which were designed by the engineers of the Knights of the Order of St John.
The author said that today Maltese salt should be exploited both for the culinary use and cultural tourism purposes.
This 277 page publication is illustrated with original designs and pictures of the various salt pans on the coast of the Maltese archipelago.
It is on sale for the price of €25 at the SKS Stand at the Malta Book Festival.