Attractions
Heritage Malta CEO reveals top 10 must-visit historical sites
Heritage Malta’s dynamic CEO Noel Zammit shares his favourite sites for history lovers.

Jo Caruana

1. The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola

“A UNESCO World Heritage Site with awe-inspiring burial chambers and an incredible aura. The demand for this site is overwhelming, with only 10 people allowed in per hour a few times a day, as per UNESCO rules. The visitor experience has just been renovated and there’s also an improved immersive audiovisual show. Tickets can be bought online here or purchased the day before at Fort St Elmo.”

viewingmalta.com

2. The Throne Room at the State Rooms of the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta

“Here, we are fortunate enough to have frescoes by Matteo Perez d’Aleccio depicting the Great Siege of 1565. They’re a must see.”

Heritage Malta

3. Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples in Qrendi

“I recommend heading to the Visitor Centre to check out the immersive 4D experience, which will set the scene before you visit. Plus, try to make it to the Equinox or Solstice events at Mnajdra – they’re breathtaking, and held four times a year to mark the change of season. You won’t love the sunrise phenomenon, but will appreciate the architectural skills our ancestors had in 3,600BC. Truly magnificent!”

viewingmalta.com

4. The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu

“The more I visit this Palace, the more I love it. Ethnography, daily life and traditions will take you back in time. The Roman Inquisition, the prison cells, and the life of the Inquisitor himself are just a few of the highlights you’ll see here.”

viewingmalta.com - Jürgen Scicluna 

5. Ggantija Temples in Xaghra, Gozo

“The megaliths, the interpretation centre, the Shaman figures (infamous for its five stick idols), the landscape and breathtaking views will also enchant you. Plus, it’s the oldest freestanding building in the world.”

viewingmalta.com

6. Fort St Angelo in Birgu

“The magic starts with the views of the Grand Harbour, which are impressive. Other highlights include the Castrum Maris, Michelangelo Merisi (aka Caravaggio), D’ Homedes Bastion, the Battle of De’ Guiral, plus the fact it was a landmark of the 1565 Great Siege of Malta and World War II.”

viewingmalta.com - Birgu local council 

7. Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum in Valletta

“Just ranked the second-best war museum in Europe by FlightNetwork, surpassing the infamous Imperial War Museum, this fort is well-known for its breathtaking views and role in the Great Siege of 1565. I recommend a visit here, including a jaunt to St Anne’s Chapel and the Cavalier audiovisual show. It will make your day.”

Heritage Malta

8. Tarxien Temples in Tarxien

“This is another UNESCO World Heritage Temple, and the largest and most complex of the prehistoric sites in Malta. It is home to some of the best examples of prehistoric art, which have survived since 3600BC, including the reliefs of two bulls and a sow.”

viewingmalta.com - Aaron Briffa

9. The National Museum of Archaeology at the Auberge de’ Provence in Valletta

“This museum is home to the many artefacts found in Malta’s prehistoric temples. The most famous item is probably the Sleeping Lady of Malta, found at the Hypogeum. The Auberge itself is also worth visiting; it’s a fine example of Baroque architecture and housed the Knights of the Order of St John.”

viewingmalta.com - Chen Weizhong

10. St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat

“This incredible site was recently re-opened and has made over 23 catacombs accessible, as well as a Punic-Roman burial site and new interpretation centre. It’s another must-see!”

Heritage Malta

For more information, please visit heritagemalta.org.


Jo  Caruana
Written by
Jo Caruana
Jo is a magazine editor and actress who is passionate about all things foodie and cultural on her island home. Her favourite pastimes include writing in cafes, performing at the Manoel Theatre, and exploring the countryside with her three beloved dogs.

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