In August 2004, IRMCo successfully completed a geomorphological survey of Ghar il-Friefet (cave of bats), which could possibly be an extension of the well known Ghar Dalam (which translates in cave of elephants based on a corrected interpretation provided by Prof Anthony Frendo). Assisted by geologist Michael Sinreich, a former colleague expert member in Cost Action 620 Vulnerability and risk mapping for protection of carbonate (karst) aquifers, the sensitivity of the cave system to the potential impact of further building on top of the cave was mapped. The unique geomorphological features of the cave featured among a collection of articles published in 2010 by Spring Verlag in a book entitled ‘Natural Heritage from East to West’.

Upper (left) and lower levels of Ghar il-Friefet