The Malta Tourism Authority recently participated in the 17th edition of the Archaeology Tourism Fair Borsa Mediterranea del Turismo Archeologico, which was held in Paestum, southern Italy.

This Archaeology Fair is the only event in the world dedicated to archaeological heritage as an ideal tourism product. The Borsa Mediterranea del Turismo Archeologico underlines the importance of cultural heritage as a factor of intercultural dialogue, social integration and economic development.  Moreover, an international workshop for specialised cultural tour operators was organised, whereby participants met tour operators from 12 different countries on a one-to-one basis.  The fair also served as a good opportunity to meet the international media specialising in history and culture.

During the fair a new 36-page Malta Archaeology brochure Megalithic Malta was launched to highlight Malta and Gozo's unique archaeological heritage. The islands are described as an archaeological paradise for the discerning tourist. The brochure was written by Andreas Steiner, editor of Archeo magazine, while the photography was entrusted to Daniel Cilia.

This specialised brochure, which was issued in collaboration with the prestigious Italian magazine Archeo, is available in four languages - English, Italian, French and German.

Commenting on the launch of this brochure, Paul Bugeja, CEO of MTA said: "Cultural tourism is considered by MTA to be one of the main segments attracting discerning tourists to the Maltese Islands. It is estimated that 35% of all tourists visiting Malta and Gozo opt for a cultural holiday, 15% visit for an exclusive cultural holiday, while a further 20% visit for a combined leisure and culture holiday."