Entering The Snop House: A Journey Through Maltese History
As you enter The Snop House, your eye will undoubtedly be drawn to the astonishing sculptural piece that acts as the ball on the banister of the majestic staircase leading to the upper floors.
This captivating ceramic piece, created by renowned Maltese artist Paul Haber, is a replica of the two Melqart cippi (one displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, the other at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta, Malta.
The Significance of the Melqart Cippi
These votive monuments, the two marble cippi, were discovered at the end of the 17th century, presumably in the south of Malta, at Marsaxlokk. According to tradition, they were dedicated to Heracles (the Phoenician god Melqart being associated with the Greek god Heracles through Interpretatio Graeca), whose temple in Malta existed but whose location remains unknown. The presence of these historical artifacts underscores the rich Phoenician heritage of Malta, a key attraction for those interested in ancient civilizations.
Deciphering Ancient Languages
In 1758, the bilingual inscription in ancient Greek and Phoenician engraved on the bases of the Melqart cippi enabled Abbé Jean-Jacques Barthélemy to identify 18 of the 22 letters of the Phoenician alphabet and thus begin deciphering the language. Barthélemy had already tried his hand at deciphering the Palmyrene alphabet, and the eminent Egyptologist Jean-François Champollion drew inspiration from this method to decipher Egyptian hieroglyphs in the 19th century. The Rosetta Stone, a fragment of an engraved stele from ancient Egypt bearing three versions of the same text that helped decipher the hieroglyphs, is thought to be the counterpart of the famous Maltese cippi. This connection highlights Maltaʼs significant role in the history of linguistics and ancient scripts.
A Gift to the Louvre
In 1782, Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc, Grand Master of the Hospitallers, offered one of the cippi to King Louis XVI. It joined the collections of the Musée du Louvre in 1864, where it is still on display. The second cippus is now kept at the National Archaeological Museum of Malta in Valletta. These artifacts are a must-see for visitors interested in archaeology and the historical treasures of Malta.
Emphasizing Phoenician Origins
By installing this replica at the very entrance to the hotel, the owners of The Snop House wish to emphasize the Phoenician origins of this archipelago. This installation serves as a starting point for discovering the rich history of Malta, whose language, even if it has evolved over the ages, is one of the many legacies left by the successive cultures that followed the Phoenicians. Visitors are invited to explore the deep historical roots and cultural heritage that make Malta a unique destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Thank you for reading! If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in the heart of Senglea, Malta, The Snop House is the perfect destination. With its blend of modern comfort and historic charm, our boutique hotel offers a unique experience that you’ll cherish. Explore our range of stylish rooms, each designed to provide a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer stay, The Snop House has the perfect space for you.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your stay now and immerse yourself in the beauty of Malta. We can’t wait to welcome you!
