Il-Maqluba: Malta's Mysterious Sinkhole
Discover Il-Maqluba: A geological wonder steeped in Maltese legend, offering unique flora, scenic views, and a glimpse into the island's past.
Il-Maqluba, located on the outskirts of Qrendi, is a remarkable geological formation and a site of intriguing local legends. The name translates to 'the upside-down one' or 'the inside-out one' in Maltese. This large sinkhole is believed to have been formed on November 23, 1343, possibly triggered by a severe winter storm or an earthquake that caused the collapse of underlying limestone strata. Geologically, it's classified as a doline, a type of sinkhole created by the collapse of a cave. Local folklore offers a more colorful explanation, suggesting that the sinkhole was created as divine punishment for a village of evildoers. According to the legend, a pious woman warned the villagers to change their ways, but they ignored her pleas. As a result, God caused the ground to collapse, swallowing the village except for the good woman, whose house is said to be where the Chapel of St. Matthew now stands. Angels then purportedly threw the destroyed village into the sea, creating the island of Filfla. Today, Il-Maqluba is a protected natural site, part of the Natura 2000 network. The sinkhole is approximately 15 meters deep with a perimeter of 300 meters and a surface area of around 4,765 square meters. It sustains a unique ecosystem with diverse flora, including bay laurel, sandarac gum trees (Malta's national tree), and the endemic Maltese salt tree. It's also a nesting site for the blue rock thrush, Malta's national bird. Visitors can admire the sinkhole from a viewing area near the Chapel of St. Matthew.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the steps and rocks around the viewing area can be slippery.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples or the Blue Grotto.
- Take a moment to explore the Chapel of St. Matthew and learn about its history and connection to the sinkhole's legend.
A brief summary to Il-Maqluba
- RFJ5+925, Triq It-Tempesta, Qrendi, MT
- +35621680404
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus line 74 towards Qrendi. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs €2.00. Get off at the 'Maqluba' bus stop, which is directly across the street from Il-Maqluba and St. Matthew's Chapel. From the bus stop, the entrance to the viewing area is a short walk to the left of the chapel.
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Walking
If you are already in Qrendi, Il-Maqluba is located a short walk from the village center. Head south on Triq il-Kbira, then turn left onto Triq it-Tempesta. Continue along Triq it-Tempesta until you reach Il-Maqluba and the Chapel of St. Matthew on your left. The entrance to the viewing area is to the left of the church.
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Taxi
From Malta International Airport, a taxi to Il-Maqluba costs approximately €20-€25 and takes around 20 minutes. Ask the driver to take you to Il-Maqluba in Qrendi, near St. Matthew's Chapel. There is generally parking available near the chapel.
