The discovery of a 2000 thousand year old Lead Anchor Stock with inscriptions on it inspired Mark Gatt to write a book. PAVLVS The Shipwreck 60 A.D.(Allied Publications 2009) which was recently launched at the MonteKristo Vaults in Hal-Farrug.

His Excellency the President of Malta, who also wrote the book’s Foreword, presided over the book launch. In his speech, Victor Bonello of MonteKristo Vineyards launched a new wine labelled after the book - PAVLVS 60 A.D. His address was followed by biblical scholar Paul Guillaumier who briefly explained Malta’s Pauline traditions and his impressions of the book, noting how the author elucidated specific maritime events mentioned by St Luke in the Acts of the Apostles.

The author briefly explained the significance of the inscriptions on the anchor and the research which evolved after this important discovery. After a deservedly short break, Mr Gatt said that he will be searching for funding to transform the book into a TV documentary. He concluded by thanking all those who helped him publish the book.

In his address, His Excellency Edward Fenech Adami said that St Luke described our national characteristic of solidarity when our ancestors received St Paul and the other two hundred and seventy five shipwrecked with him with unusual kindness. His final impression was that the author enjoyed the dives and also must have enjoyed writing the book as, indeed, he himself enjoyed reading it.

Food and wine, graciously provided by MonteKristo Vaults were served and everyone present lifted their glass of PAVLVS 60 A.D. fine wine to toast to His Excellency’s 75th Birthday.