Beyond Explanation: Malta’s Cart Ruts That Defy Historical Explanation

One of these unexplained phenomena thought to be man-made occurs on the islands of Malta and Gozo in the Maltese islands. These parallel lines seemingly cut into stone have puzzled experts for centuries. Who made these marks? Let’s get into it.

These “cart ruts” of Malta likely served transportation or industrial railway purposes, unlike the ceremonial desert marking.

According to Ancient Origins, most of the channels measure to be about eight to 15 cm (5.90) inches deep. Some of the deeper channels are about 60 cm (23.62 in). The width can reach 140 cm (55.11 in).

Maltese archaeologist Anthony Bonanno suggested that the ruts are Phoenician constructions, which was an ancient Semitic thalassocratic civilization that originated in the coastal strip of the Levant region of the eastern Mediterranean around 2500 B.C.

The ruts vary in size, ranging from wide, V-shaped, and shallow, with some appearing as if tools squared them off. It is difficult to determine the types of vehicles that caused them or if weathering has altered the shape of the ruts.

The patterns in the Malta ruts resemble purposefully caused erosion on wagon tracks, unlike the other tracks naturally found in Europe.

However, others believe that the ruts were deliberate channels, making a prehistoric irrigation system that stretched across the islands.

However, there is no evidence of that. Some researchers suggest that humans pulled or pushed carts.

Someone transported rocks across the island to build these ancient temples, possibly giants if the legends are true.

Rock transportation in ancient times is nothing new. Ancient Polynesians residing on Easter Island moved the Easter Island Heads using three strong ropes and practice (via National Geographic).

While the ruts do not have obvious starting or ending points at the temples, this is just a working theory for some researchers.

These temples are remarkable not only for their age but also for the advanced architectural techniques demonstrated by their builders, who achieved these feats without metal tools or modern technology. The construction materials and methods provide significant insights into the capabilities and resourcefulness of these ancient people.

This connection sheds light on the migration patterns and cultural exchanges in the region during the Neolithic period. 

These phases reflect the gradual evolution of the local Neolithic culture, showcasing the adaptability and innovation of the island’s inhabitants in response to their changing environment and needs.

The discovery of sickle blades, domestic animal bones, and cereal remnants indicates a stable agricultural base, supplemented by hunting practices, as suggested by the presence of carved limestone rocks likely used as slingshots.

This evolution marks a shift in societal priorities and capabilities, with increasing emphasis on communal and religious constructs.

Finds from this period, such as the Ta’ Trapna tombs, reveal a society engaged in ritualistic practices and artistic expression, as evidenced by the decorated pottery and use of red ochre.

These temples exemplify the architectural sophistication achieved by the Maltese Neolithic people, with complex layouts and evidence of ritualistic activities, including possible animal sacrifices.

The intricate design and decorative elements within the hypogeum, such as wall paintings and red ochre-covered bones, highlight the ceremonial importance of this site and provide insights into the burial practices of the time.

These temples feature elaborate designs and detailed decorative elements, including animal reliefs and statues. 

The detailed workmanship and thematic consistency across these artifacts provide valuable clues about the beliefs and values of the Maltese Neolithic society.

This method illustrates the ingenuity and practical problem-solving skills of the temple builders in the absence of wheel technology.

While the exact purpose of these alignments remains a subject of speculation, they demonstrate the sophisticated understanding of celestial patterns by Malta’s ancient builders and their integration of this knowledge into sacred spaces.

While it is obvious that the ruts played a significant role in the lives of ancient people who lived there, the secret behind the ruts may never come out.