Background

Ħaġar Qim: Malta's Ancient Standing Stones

Explore Ħaġar Qim, an ancient megalithic temple complex in Malta, dating back to 3600-3200 BC, offering insights into Neolithic culture and engineering.

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Explore Ħaġar Qim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Malta's most important megalithic temple complexes, dating back to 3600-3200 BC. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, these remarkably preserved ruins offer a glimpse into Malta's Neolithic past and the sophisticated engineering of its ancient inhabitants.

A brief summary to Hagar Qim Temple

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths around the temples are uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat, especially during summer.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is limited shade between the temples.
  • Consider watching the 4D audio-visual presentation at the Visitor Centre for a better understanding of the temples.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby Mnajdra Temples, as the entrance ticket covers both sites.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus number 74 from the Valletta A5 terminal. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes to the 'Hagar' bus stop. From the bus stop, walk 350m to the site. A single bus ticket costs €3. Alternatively, from the airport, take bus 201 to Ħaġar Qim.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi ride from Valletta to Ħaġar Qim takes approximately 17 minutes. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

  • Driving

    From Valletta, follow the signs to Żurrieq, then continue on the coastal road towards Siġġiewi. Ħaġar Qim is well signposted. Free parking is available at the Hagar Qim Archaeological Park. Be aware that parking can be limited.

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Discover more about Hagar Qim Temple

Discover the mysteries of Ħaġar Qim, an extraordinary megalithic temple complex that stands as a testament to Malta's rich prehistoric heritage. Constructed between 3600 and 3200 BC, during the Ġgantija phase, Ħaġar Qim, meaning "Standing/Worshipping Stones," is among the most ancient religious sites on Earth. The UNESCO World Heritage Site designation recognizes these temples as unique architectural masterpieces. Located on a hilltop near Qrendi, on Malta's southern coast, Ħaġar Qim offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islet of Fifla. The main temple complex comprises a central temple and several additional megalithic structures. The main structure consists of five rooms or apses with a corridor down the middle. The layout, resembling a woman's body, along with discovered clay figurines, suggests the temple served as a shrine to Mother Earth and fertility cycles. A 5.2-meter monolith may represent the male. Excavated in 1839, the site reveals the ingenuity of Neolithic builders who used local coralline and globigerina limestone. The temple's design incorporates astronomical alignments, with the central doorway aligned to the summer solstice sunrise, allowing sunlight to penetrate the temple. The largest stone used in Maltese megalithic architecture, weighing 57 tons, can be found in the Ħaġar Qim façade. Just 500 meters from Ħaġar Qim lies the Mnajdra temple complex, another remarkable site. A single ticket grants access to both sites and the visitor center, where you can explore exhibits, watch a 4D presentation, and learn about the temples' history and significance.

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