St Paul’s Catacombs
Discover the Mysteries of St. Paul's Catacombs
Saint Agatha Catacombs: A Subterranean Journey Through Early Christianity
Uncover Malta's ancient past in the mysterious Saint Agatha Catacombs, an early Christian burial site with historical and religious significance.
Explore the Saint Agatha Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, an early Christian burial site dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. Discover a labyrinth of tombs, early Christian frescoes, and a museum housing Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian artifacts, offering a glimpse into Malta's rich history and religious heritage.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Saint Agatha Catacombs
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
1 pm-4:30 pm
Tuesday
1 pm-4:30 pm
Wednesday
1 pm-4:30 pm
Thursday
1 pm-4 pm
Friday
1 pm-4:30 pm
Saturday
10 am-1:30 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus routes 50 or 53 to Rabat. The catacombs are located on St. Agatha Street, a short walk from the Domus Romana. A single journey bus ticket costs €2.50 during the summer. Alternatively, a 12 Single Day Journeys card costs €19 and is valid for 6 months.
Walking
From the center of Rabat, the catacombs are easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs towards St. Paul's Catacombs; St. Agatha's is a short walk down a side street. The walk is generally easy, though St. Agatha Street is narrow.
Taxi
Taxis are available from various points in Malta. A taxi from Valletta to Rabat costs approximately €22. Local taxis, known as 'white taxis,' can be found near popular tourist attractions. Alternatively, the eCabs app offers pre-booked taxis at fixed prices.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes as the catacombs involve walking through uneven and narrow underground passageways.
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Note that photography is not allowed inside the catacombs to preserve the delicate frescoes and artifacts.
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Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds, as weekends tend to be busier.
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The site may be claustrophobic for some visitors due to the underground environment.
Discover more about Saint Agatha Catacombs
Delve into the depths of Saint Agatha Catacombs, an extensive underground cemetery in Rabat, Malta, that unveils the island's early Christian roots. Dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, these catacombs served as a final resting place during Roman times, when burials within city limits were considered unhygienic. The complex extends over 4100 square meters and contains over 500 graves.According to local legend, Saint Agatha, a revered figure in early Christianity, sought refuge in these catacombs in 249 AD during the persecution by Emperor Decius. The catacombs are named in her honor. Visitors can explore the alleged shelter of the martyr and admire early Christian frescoes and 'agape tables' carved from rock, which were likely used for commemorative meals for the deceased.The site also features a museum displaying a collection of Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian artifacts, providing additional context to the historical significance of the catacombs. The catacombs reveal how the Christian faith started in Malta. They include varied tombs, Latin and Greek inscriptions, and wall paintings.
A brief summary to Saint Agatha Catacombs
Use Saint Agatha Catacombs as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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