False past horizons10 communal water supplies in the form of large circular ponds. It is not exactly known when these ponds were constructed and there is a series of large stone- lined wells near Beli which are said to have been built by the Romans. Water is extremely scarce and there is much evidence of a carefully planned water management system in the shape of channels feeding into cisterns throughout the island. Areas not used for forestry were given over to pasture land for sheep and cattle, and another regional feature was also exploited; the sink hole. These collapsed limestone caverns form huge circular craters along the lines of underground rivers, and their flat bases were used to grow vegetables until very recently. When the Austro- Hungarians took over the Island in the 18th century they continued with the forestry exploitation and later began to mine for bauxite in open cast pits. These industrial operations sat alongside the long- established farming practices of sheep and olives. The Griffon vulture was a useful, if unwitting, ally to the farmer as it cleansed the landscape of dead sheep, which protected flocks from potential disease. Finally, after enduring the occupation and eventual retreat of the Italian fascists, at the end of the Second World War people fearing what the future might bring started to Recording a Roman road ( Inset: Roman single arch bridge) Left: Low wall with rock- cut bowl at terminus

False 11past horizons leave their farms and villages, many of which may have their origins in pre- history. As the people left, the sheep population declined dramatically to only 10,000 and, added to modern farming practices of injection against disease, this has resulted in a lack of carrion for the vulture. However, the work of the eco- centre has seen the Griffon vulture population increase from 20 pairs 10 years ago to 70 pairs today. They work with the sheep farmers and, assisted by volunteers, help maintain the walls and clean out the ponds. The centre also saves young vultures from drowning after tourists in boats scare them into flight and, out of exhaustion, drop into the sea. The birds sometimes suffer poisoning and shooting, and if still alive are taken to the centre for rehabilitation before being set free again. This, however, may not be enough to protect this incredible bird. This area of the island desperately needs legal protection from hunters who have already destroyed a large section of the Roman road and knocked down ancient walls to allow for vehicle access. Developers are also starting to express interest in the Below: One of four Roman wells near BeliAbove: A complex relationship of walls, terraces and cairns continued ? ?