Back to the Roots – Mediterranean Herbs in the 21st Century:
A 4-Part Lecture Series by Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA) at Valletta Design Cluster.
Fully air-conditioned lecture hall!!
Join us for Back to the Roots, an enriching lecture series that brings together experts, gardening enthusiasts, and community members to explore the timeless value of Mediterranean herbs and their relevance in our modern lives.
Through engaging talks and practical insights, participants will rediscover Malta’s herbal heritage, sustainable gardening practices, and the health and culinary benefits of local herbs.
Lecture Programme
Lecture 1 – The Use of Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Certain Culture-Specific Illnesses in Maltese Folk Tradition
Friday 11th July @6:30pm
Speaker: Timothy J. Tabone (Ethno-biologist & Environmental Warden)
Explore how traditional Maltese healers used locally grown herbs to treat ailments such as the fright-jaundice syndrome. Learn about the cultural roots of these remedies and why preserving this knowledge matters today.
Lecture 2 – A Taste of Wellness: Cooking with Maltese Herbs Saturday
19th July @10:30am
Speaker: Dr. Karen Mugliett (Lecturer and Author of Seasonal and Sustainable)
Discover the powerful blend of culture, nutrition, and sustainability in Maltese cooking with herbs. This session offers practical tips for using herbs to enhance flavour, reduce salt, and inspire new culinary habits.
Lecture 3 – Growing Herbs: A Guide to Cultivating Flavour and Wellness
Saturday26th July @10:30am
Speaker: Dr. Claudette Gambin (Botanist & Principal Scientific Officer at Ambjent Malta)
Get hands-on advice on choosing, planting, and maintaining herbs in the hot, dry Mediterranean climate. From soil preparation to sun exposure, this talk provides a solid foundation for anyone wanting to grow a thriving herb garden.
Participants will:
Lecture 4 – Growing Kitchen Herbs Organically in Malta: Understanding Soils, Challenges & Living Solutions
Saturday 2nd August @10:30am
Speakers: Thomas Grima & Adam Barton (Co-founders, TerraSoil)
Explore the science behind healthy soil and discover practical, organic solutions tailored for Malta’s unique conditions. This hands-on session introduces tools, products, and techniques to help anyone grow herbs successfully — no matter their space or experience.