Tarxien Temples

The megalithic temples of Tarxien perfectly reflect the building techniques of the first civilisations that populated Malta. Marvel at these buildings dating back to 2800 BC.

The eastern part of Malta is home to the island's most recent and therefore best preserved megalithic temples. In 1913, local farmers discovered the Tarxien temples by chance, which were later declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

This religious complex consists of 4 temples built between 3000 and 2500 BC. During the archaeological excavations, sharp objects, shells and animal bones were discovered, suggesting that funerary rituals involving animal sacrifices were practised in the temples.

In addition, many of the semicircular chambers of the temples have stone altars carved with spiral motifs. This type of decoration, which is repeated in other megalithic temples in Malta, refers to eternity and life.

During a visit to the Tarxien Temples, you can also see the sculpture of an ancient fertility goddess.

Our advice

If you're planning to visit the Tarxien Temples, we recommend making a day of it and also visiting the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, as they are 2 Malta must-sees within walking distance of each other.

Schedule

Daily from 9 am - 5 pm

Price

Adults: 6 (US$ 6.40)
Youth aged 12-17, seniors over 60 and students:  4.50 (US$ 4.80)
Children aged 6-11: 3 (US$ 3.20)
Children under 5: free entry

Transport

Bus: lines 81, 82, 84, 85 and 88 from Valletta