Għar il-Friefet or the Bats Cave at Birżebbuġa : geology, natural history, and antitquities

Abstract

Very little material has been published about Għar il-Friefet, even though this cave has been long known to local inhabitants. The cave was threatened during the late 1980s as a result of the building extension at the site, but was fortunately saved by the intervention of the local council and concerned environmental groups. Its entrance has been closed off to the public by a gate and admittance controlled by the Department of Environment. The cave now falls under the jurisdiction of the Birzebbugia Local Council. This guidebook comprises relevant information about the cave and is being presented to provide visitors with a concise amount of information. It is hoped that this booklet will create a sense of awareness to the scientific importance of this site so that the cave becomes considered an important Maltese heritage site.