New & now
Wow! Did you know that Ta’ Bakkja Gallery system in Ħaż-Żebbuġ is located 100 metres below ground level?
The gallery system was excavated between 1955 and 1965.

Lyndsey Grima

The Ta’ Bakkja Gallery system, a marvel of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity, captured beautifully by Daniel Cilia, was excavated between 1955 and 1965.

Situated at sea level, approximately 100 meters below ground level, this subterranean masterpiece is located in the outskirts of Ħaż-Żebbuġ, Malta.

The primary chamber at Ta’ Bakkja serves as a gateway to six intricate water galleries, showcasing a fusion of historical significance and hydraulic expertise.

The heart of the system is an underground main hall, shrouded in the mysteries of the past. This cavernous expanse serves a vital purpose in managing water resources, as a pumping station situated above it orchestrates the transfer of groundwater to the Ta’ Qali reservoirs.

The journey of water doesn't end there; it converges with the output from the Water Services Corporation's Reverse Osmosis plants.

This subterranean marvel, featured on Facebook page ‘8000 Years of Water,’ symbolises not just the architectural prowess of its time but also the timeless importance of water management.

Did you know about this underground marvel?

8th January 2026


Lyndsey Grima
Written by
Lyndsey Grima
Lyndsey has always been passionate about all things content. She keeps her storytelling skills sharp by exercising physically as she’s a fitness buff and also mentally as she enjoys reading and travelling.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
The lampuka, the Maltese name for the popular dolphin fish, (also known as dorado or mahi-mahi), has been a staple on local tables for generations at this time of year.

Sarah Muscat Azzopardi
New & now

Emma Galea
New & now
New & now
Despite its name, volcanic ash is very different from the soft ash produced by a fire.

Lyndsey Grima
New & now
New & now
The two young dancers delivered a series of strong performances across the Ballroom and Latin categories!

Lyndsey Grima