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Tarxien Temples: Echoes of Neolithic Malta

Explore Malta's ancient past at the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with megalithic structures dating back over 5,000 years.

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Explore the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Malta's most important prehistoric sites, dating back to 3600-2500 BC. Discover intricate stone carvings, animal reliefs, and insights into Neolithic culture within this complex of megalithic structures.

A brief summary to Tarxien Temples

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, another fascinating prehistoric site within walking distance.
  • Take time to study the intricate carvings and animal reliefs, showcasing the artistry of the Neolithic people.
  • Check out the original artifacts, including the colossal statue, at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus lines 81, 82, 84, 85, or 88 to the 'Neolitici' bus stop in Tarxien. The temples are a short 2-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare costs €2-€3.

  • Driving

    From Valletta, drive south for approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) to Tarxien. Limited street parking is available near the site. A new 128-space public car park is located on Cikku Saliba Street, a short walk from the temples. Parking costs vary.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Valletta to Tarxien Temples takes approximately 9 minutes. Taxi fares vary.

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Discover more about Tarxien Temples

The Tarxien Temples, located in the town of Tarxien, Malta, represent a fascinating journey into the island's Neolithic past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises four megalithic structures built between 3600 and 2500 BC, offering a glimpse into the unique culture and architectural skills of Malta's prehistoric inhabitants. Discovered by local farmers in 1913 and extensively excavated, the Tarxien Temples stand as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Temple Period. The complex consists of four interconnected temples, each revealing distinct features and construction phases. The South Temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, including spirals, animal reliefs (bulls, pigs, and goats), and the lower part of a colossal statue believed to represent a fertility goddess. The Central Temple showcases a unique six-apse plan, suggesting a complex layout with restricted access to certain areas. The East Temple, the oldest of the complex, retains its five-apse plan, though it has suffered alterations over time. The fourth temple, of which only traces remain, completes this remarkable ensemble. During excavations, archaeologists discovered animal bones, shells, and sharp objects, indicating ritual animal sacrifices and funerary practices. The presence of stone spheres suggests their use as rollers to transport the massive megaliths. Today, visitors can explore the temples via an elevated walkway, offering unique perspectives on the prehistoric remains. A protective shelter safeguards the site from the elements, ensuring the preservation of this invaluable cultural heritage. Copies of significant artifacts are in place, while the originals are preserved at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.

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