The Sanctuary of Astarte at Ras il-Wardija in Gozo (Malta) between Carthage and Rome. Cults, rituals, and religious entanglements of a Mediterranean Sanctuary (Fourth Century BC-Second Century AD)

The Ras il-Wardija sanctuary (fourth century BC-second century AD) in Gozo was a key Punic-Roman site dedicated to Astarte, protecting seafarers and linked to Gozo’s agricultural economy. Excavations by Sapienza University of Rome, in collaboration with Superintendence CH and Heritage Malta since 2021, have revealed pottery fragments inscribed with Astarte’s name. These resemble those from Tas-Silġ, Malta’s main Punic sanctuary, suggesting an unprecedented link between the two sites. This discovery sheds light on religious rituals, including Anagógia and Katagógia festivals.