Check out these amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malta.
It’s not every day that you get an opportunity to visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Well, in Malta, there are three you could see in a single day!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a landmark or area which is considered to have cultural, historical, scientific or other significance by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation. The sites are effectively considered to be of world interest beyond national interest, and are protected by international treaties.
Malta is extraordinary in that it is remarkably rich in historical and cultural value, particularly for its small size. While other nominations for UNESCO World Heritage status include Mdina, The Citadel in Gozo, the Knights' Fortifications around the Harbours of Malta, the Victoria Lines Fortifications, the Maltese Catacomb Complexes, Qawra/Dwejra and the Coastal Cliffs, the following have been officially recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
1. City of Valletta (1980)
Valletta is often described as an 'open air museum' because every street offers some historical significance. It contains no less than 320 monuments scattered around its signature sloping streets and shallow steps, apart from the stunning, elaborate architecture, Maltese balconies, niches, original shop signs, gardens and much more. It was built in 1565 by the Knights of the Order of St John right after the Great Siege of Malta. UNESCO describes Valletta as "one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world."
2. Megalithic Temples of Malta (1980,1992)
Although counted as one, this actually includes no less than six temple complexes, each with its own significance. These include the Ggantija Temples in Gozo and the Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, Tarxien, Ta' Hagrat and Skorba complexes in Malta. Together they demonstrate the extraordinary magnificence of such Bronze Age structures and the tradition of temple-building in Malta. The Megalithic Temples of Malta are among the most ancient freestanding structures on Earth, and are described by UNESCO as "unique architectural masterpieces".
3. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (1980)
Be prepared to experience, in UNESCO’s own words, "a unique prehistoric monument", considered one of the eldest in the world. The rock cut architecture is most impressive and the site is shrouded in mystery, including stories of paranormal phenomena, an uncertain discovery of elongated skulls and unique acoustic properties that leave experts uncertain as to why the Hypogeum was developed and by whom. The remains of about 7,000 individuals and a large number of artefacts discovered in this enormous subterranean structure suggest the simplest explanation - that Hal Saflieni was intended as a sanctuary and was later used as a cemetery, between 4,000 BC and 2,500 BC.
Enjoy these marvels and don't forget to take pictures so that you can brag about it!