It is a real pity that Malta has missed a good chance of promoting its heritage by not taking part in the Modern Seven Wonders of the World competition that is currently being held worldwide.

As Maltese, we should be proud of having many archaeological sites, at least one of which should have been nominated.

Of course, we could not expect to win or to even make it in the list of finalists published recently. But the fact that millions of visitors, all through 2005, picked their choice from a list of 77 nominations would have put Malta in the limelight along with the others.

I read on the internet that the Italians and the British were disappointed that only one site from their country made it to the finals. We should all be disappointed that Malta did not make it in the initial round.

What is even sadder is that, according to reports in your newspaper, the authorities did not even know that such a competition was taking place. I believe that something like this should have been picked up by those who promote tourism – be it the government or the Malta Tourism Authority or one of the organisations that take care of our heritage.

I repeat. It is a pity that we did not take part. I am sure that many people would have got to know what Malta has to offer through such a competition.

T. Camilleri

Msida