How do you entertain children on holiday when it’s raining or too blisteringly hot to even contemplate roasting on the beach? Simple: head indoors. And not just into any old building, but none other than a villa, a Roman villa to be precise, dating back to the 1st century BC. 

No, there are no video games in there and, on paper, it hardly stands out as the most ideal children’s attraction. But bear with me. I’ve been dragging, sorry, taking my children, Ben (now aged 11) and Eloise (soon turning 9) around Malta’s historic attractions since they were still in pushchairs. I’ve made it my mission to acquaint them with part of their heritage seeing as they are half Maltese. By now ,they’ve already become mini-experts on Malta’s many museums and historic sites, and they have their own opinion on what works (and what doesn't) for children.

Domus Romana (or Domvs Romana)

A visit to any country around the Mediterranean is sure to touch upon the lasting influence of the Romans, and children in Malta start learning about the heritage left by this great empire from primary school. So of course I had to take Ben and Eloise to the small museum of the Domus Romana just outside the gates of Mdina. 

Built around the remains of a rich, aristocratic Roman town house which dates back to the 1st century BC, the museum features some exquisite mosaic floors, and the only set of marble statues portraying the emperor Claudius and his family to be seen in a private house anywhere in the Roman empire. 

The villa was discovered by accident in 1881, and the original museum was built on the site a year later, making it the first purpose-built museum of its kind in Malta. The villa is believed to have remained in use until the 2nd century AD, and during the 11th century was converted into a Muslim cemetery. While most of the house was destroyed, the mosaics survived largely intact, and are still as awe-inspiring as ever. 

The information plaques are enough to help any parent explain the key points of the fascinating history of the Romans, and the museum is small enough for children to take it all in before getting bored. A quick but very important history lesson! 

Ben says: It’s a good outing for a rainy day. 7/10

Eloise says: The mosaics are fascinating and interesting. 8/10

Mum says: This is a personal favourite of mine. The mosaics are not the only attraction. I especially love the delicate glass vases that have survived intact for almost 2,000 years. And it's pushchair (and wheelchair) friendly too.