Malta Cart Tracks

Spread all over the tiny Maltese Archipelago are unexplained grooves in the bedrock. These ruts (or ‘tracks’ as they are often known) are heavily weathered and some examples have been found under the sea, just off the coast, or ending abruptly at cliff edges, thus suggesting a prehistoric origin. They are totally unique and nothing like them can be found anywhere else.

There are many theories on the original purpose of these man made structures. Perhaps it was an ancient irrigation system or a way of marking ceremonial routes, although the most likely explanation is that the tracks are the result of ‘sledgecarts’ being dragged over the same route for hundreds of years, creating the deep grooves that are seen today.

Whatever their purpose, they are a fascinating, yet puzzling sight to behold. The best example being at ‘Clapham Junction’ on the south of the island. Thus named because the complex pattern of ruts was supposed to resemble the railway tracks at Clapham Junction railway station in London, England.