St. Catald Catacomb: Rabat's Subterranean Secret
Discover an intimate glimpse into early Christian burial rituals at the St. Catald Catacomb, a hidden gem in Rabat, Malta.
Explore the St. Catald Catacomb in Rabat, Malta, a small, well-preserved hypogeum beneath a 1745 chapel dedicated to an obscure Irish saint. Dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries, these catacombs offer a glimpse into early Christian funerary rituals, featuring unique canopied tombs and a rare agape table.
A brief summary to St. Catald Catacomb
- V9JX+P65, Bir Ir-Riebu, Rabat, MT
- Visit website
Local tips
- Entry is by donation, so be generous to support the upkeep of this historical site.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby St. Paul's Catacombs for a broader understanding of Maltese burial practices.
- The catacombs are smaller than others, so plan for a shorter visit, around 20-30 minutes.
Getting There
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Walking
The St. Catald Catacomb is located near the main church of St. Paul in Rabat's center. From St. Paul's Church, walk along Triq il-Kullegg towards the catacombs. The walk is short and straightforward. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus routes 50, 51, 52, 53, or 56 to Rabat. Alight at the 'Buzugrilla' bus stop, which is a short walk from the catacombs. Single bus tickets cost approximately €2-3. From the bus stop, walk along Triq il-Kullegg towards the catacombs.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Malta. A taxi ride from Valletta to St. Catald Catacomb in Rabat typically costs between €20-€30, depending on traffic and the taxi company. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near St. Paul's Church, from where you can easily walk to the catacombs.
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