Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum: A Journey into Malta's Prehistoric Past

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Explore a prehistoric underground temple and necropolis in Paola, Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 4000 BC.

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Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Descend into the depths of Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean structure in Paola, Malta, dating back to 4000 BC. This UNESCO World Heritage site served as a sanctuary and necropolis, holding the remains of over 7,000 individuals. Explore its three levels of rock-cut chambers, adorned with intricate carvings, and discover a unique window into Malta's temple-building culture.

A brief summary to Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Triq Ic Cimiterju Raħal Ġdid, PLA, 1116, MT
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

Book your tickets well in advance (2-3 months) as entry is limited and sells out quickly.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes; high heels, sandals, or flip-flops are not permitted.
Photography and filming are not allowed inside the Hypogeum.
Arrive 15 minutes before your tour time for check-in.
Note that the archaeological site is not wheelchair accessible, though the audio-visual show and display area are.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Valletta, take bus routes 81, 82, 83, 84 or 88 to the 'Ipogew' bus stop in Paola. The journey takes approximately 12 minutes and costs €2-3. From the bus stop, the Hypogeum is a short walk. Alternatively, from St. Paul's Bay, a bus ride to Paola takes about 45-50 minutes.
Taxi

A taxi from Malta International Airport (MLA) to the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum takes around 15 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 3 km. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the ride. A taxi from Valletta to the Hypogeum will cost approximately the same.
Walking

If you are already in Paola, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is located on Triq Ic-Cimiterju, a short walk from the town center. From Paola church, it's approximately 400 meters.

Discover more about Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, located in Paola, Malta, is a unique and remarkably well-preserved subterranean structure dating back to the Neolithic period (around 4000-2500 BC). The Hypogeum, meaning "underground" in Greek, is thought to have been used as both a sanctuary and a necropolis. Discovered in 1902 during construction work, it has become one of Malta's most significant archaeological sites.The Hypogeum is composed of three levels, hewn from soft globigerina limestone. The upper level, just a meter below the surface, contains chambers used for burial. The middle level features chambers with stylistic similarities to Malta's megalithic temples. The lower level, currently closed to the public, descends 11 meters and contains additional chambers. The site's halls and chambers are interconnected by a labyrinthine network of steps, lintels, and doorways.Archaeological excavations have revealed the remains of over 7,000 individuals within the Hypogeum. Excavations in 1904 unearthed numerous artifacts, including amulets, pottery, and the famous "Sleeping Lady" statuette, which is now displayed at Malta's National Museum of Archaeology.Visiting the Hypogeum is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the practices and beliefs of Malta's prehistoric inhabitants. Due to the delicate environment, visitor access is strictly controlled, and tickets must be booked well in advance.