St Paul's Catacombs: A Journey Through Malta's Early Christian History
Discover ancient burial grounds in Rabat, Malta, exploring early Christian history and Roman funerary practices at St Paul's Catacombs.
St Paul's Catacombs, located in Rabat, Malta, represent the earliest and largest archaeological evidence of Christianity on the island. These interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries were in use up to the 7th or 8th centuries AD. The catacombs are named after St. Paul, who is believed to have been shipwrecked on Malta in AD 60, and who sought refuge in a grotto nearby. The catacombs are part of a larger cemetery that was once located outside the walls of the ancient Roman city of Melite (now Mdina and Rabat). Roman law prohibited burials within the city walls, leading to the creation of this extensive burial ground. The complex covers over 2,000 square meters and contains a network of underground galleries and tombs. Visitors can explore over 20 of the catacombs, each varying in size and splendor. The site features a variety of tomb types, including the elaborately carved baldacchino tombs for the wealthy and simple floor tombs for the poor. Agape tables, circular tables hewn out of the rock, were used for commemorative meals during annual festivals of the dead. The catacombs also reveal the coexistence of various religious communities, including pagans, Christians, and Jews, with menorahs, crosses, and Latin inscriptions found on the walls. In the 13th century, during the re-Christianization of Malta, part of the catacombs were re-cut and used as a Christian shrine, decorated with murals. The site was first fully investigated in 1894 by Dr. Antonio Annetto Caruana. Today, Heritage Malta manages the catacombs, ensuring their preservation and accessibility to the public.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the catacombs have uneven floors and steps.
- Bring a light jacket, as the underground environment can be cool and damp.
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the catacombs and the visitor center.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Check the Heritage Malta website for any special events or temporary closures.
A brief summary to St Paul’s Catacombs
- Hal-Bajjada, Rabat, MT
- +35621454562
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus routes 51, 52, 53, 56, 181, 201, or N50 to the 'Rabat Saqqajja' bus stop. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From the bus stop, walk along Triq San Pawl, then turn left onto Hal-Bajjada. The entrance to St Paul's Catacombs is about a 10-minute walk. A single bus ticket costs €2.
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Walking
From Mdina Gate, walk straight towards the center of Rabat. Follow the signs for St Paul's Catacombs. Head east on Triq San Pawl, then turn left onto Hal-Bajjada. The catacombs are approximately a 10-minute walk from Mdina Gate.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available along Triq Ħal Bajjada, but spaces are limited. Additional parking can be found at is-Saqqaja, il-Wesgħa tal-Mużew, or Triq Rudolph Saliba. Parking is generally free.
