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A unity 3D script for calculating solar alignment at the neolithic temples complex at Ggantija, Gozo

2017; Elsevier BV; Volume: 17; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.jasrep.2017.12.012

2352-4103

Robert P. Barratt,

Historical Astronomy and Related Studies

Cosmological alignment plays an important role in Neolithic Maltese belief systems. Temple complexes and hypogea have indications of solar, sidereal or lunar arrangements, yet sources are often based on mathematical calculations at specific key points of the year. The data is limited by computational requirements, providing only a partial picture of this phenomenon. Through the use of a Unity3D script the temples of Ggantija, Gozo, are re-analysed, exposing additional information regarding duration, timing and reuse. The script calculates the illumination of internal spaces throughout the year, expanding the dataset and providing insight into past ritual. The contrast between dark and light is demonstrated within the context of Maltese ritual belief, using archaeological evidence from Ggantija and other temples as a basis. The results emphasise the wider uses of 3D reconstruction and scripting for the interpretation of archaeological structures.