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Hagar Qim: Ancient Maltese Temple

Explore Hagar Qim, Malta's ancient megalithic temple: a journey into the island's mysterious Neolithic past with breathtaking Mediterranean views.

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Hagar Qim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malta, is a megalithic temple complex dating back to 3600-3200 BC. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean, these remarkably preserved ruins offer a glimpse into Malta's prehistoric past and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.

A brief summary to Hagar Qim Temple

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the temples is uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during summer.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is limited shade.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby Mnajdra temples for a more complete experience.
  • Check the Heritage Malta website for updated opening hours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, reach the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park by taking bus routes 71, 72, 73, 74, or 201. These buses depart regularly from the Valletta bus terminus. Alight at the 'Hagar' bus stop, which is approximately a 3-minute walk to the Visitor Center. A single bus ticket costs around €2. Alternatively, from the Malta International Airport, take bus route 201 directly to Hagar Qim.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi ride from Valletta to Hagar Qim typically takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately €20-€30. From the airport, a taxi ride is slightly shorter and may cost around the same. Note that prices may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs towards Qrendi or Zurrieq, then follow the signs to Hagar Qim. Free parking is available at the Hagar Qim Archaeological Park. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the Visitor Center and the temple site.

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Discover more about Hagar Qim Temple

Hagar Qim, meaning 'Standing Stones' or 'Worshipping Stones', is one of Malta's most significant prehistoric sites. Dating back over 5,000 years to the Ġgantija phase (3600–3200 BC), this megalithic temple complex offers a fascinating insight into the lives and beliefs of Malta's Neolithic inhabitants. The site is located on a hilltop near Qrendi, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islet of Filfla. The main temple structure comprises a series of interconnected oval chambers and semi-circular recesses, a design typical of Maltese temples. The sheer size of the megaliths, some weighing close to 60 tons, is awe-inspiring, especially considering they were erected without the aid of metal tools or the wheel. One of the most impressive stones is a 5.2-meter high monolith, the largest used in Maltese megalithic architecture. Archaeological excavations have revealed insights into the temple's purpose. Animal bones found within the complex suggest possible animal sacrifices, while statuettes of a large woman indicate the temple may have been dedicated to a fertility goddess. The temple's design also demonstrates an understanding of astronomy, with the sun's rays penetrating the temple through a specific hole during the summer solstice to illuminate a stone slab. Today, Hagar Qim is part of an archaeological park, with a visitor center offering exhibits and a 4D audiovisual experience to enhance understanding of the site. A protective shelter has been erected over the temple to protect the stones from the elements. Just 500 meters from Hagar Qim lies the Mnajdra temple complex, another remarkable prehistoric site well worth visiting.

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