How did Phoenician and Carthaginian influence appear in ancient Malta?

The influence of Phoenician and Carthaginian cultures in ancient Malta is evidenced by archaeological findings dating from the 8th century BCE onward.12

• Phoenician Presence: Contact with Semitic culture began between the 8th and 6th centuries BCE. Evidence of this early presence is primarily found in inscriptions and the repurposing of existing structures, such as the conversion of a prehistoric temple at Tas-Silġ into a Phoenician sanctuary.2
• Carthaginian (Punic) Presence: From the 6th century BCE, there is more substantial archaeological proof of a Carthaginian presence on the islands. This includes the discovery of coins, various inscriptions, and rock-cut tombs characteristic of the Punic style.2

These settlements served as strategic stepping-stones for Phoenician and Carthaginian maritime expansion across the Mediterranean, particularly along routes toward the mineral wealth of Spain. This period of influence concluded when Malta came under Roman political control in 218 BCE.12