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Ġgantija Temples: Gozo's Megalithic Marvel

Explore the ancient Ġgantija Temples in Gozo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest free-standing structures, dating back over 5,500 years.

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The Ġgantija Temples in Gozo are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the world's oldest free-standing structures, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Built between 3600 and 3200 BC, these megalithic temples offer a glimpse into Neolithic life and the impressive architectural abilities of the time.

A brief summary to It-Tempji tal-Ġgantija

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the outdoor site.
  • Visit the Interpretation Centre to learn about the history and significance of the temples before exploring the site.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months, as the site offers limited shade.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider purchasing a মাল্টিপাস to save money if you plan to visit other historical sites in Malta and Gozo.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take a bus to Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal in Malta. Several bus routes connect Valletta to Ċirkewwa. From Ċirkewwa, take the Gozo Channel Ferry to Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The ferry trip takes approximately 20 minutes. Once in Mġarr, take bus 322 to the 'Tempji' bus stop, which is a short walk to the Ġgantija Temples. A single bus ticket costs around €2. The Gozo ferry costs around €4.65 for a round trip.

  • Driving

    From Mġarr Harbour in Gozo, follow the signs to Xagħra. As you approach Xagħra, follow the signs for the Ġgantija Temples. Parking is available near the site. Parking is free for blue badge holders outside the exit building. Expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour for parking in public lots.

  • Taxi

    From Mġarr Harbour, a taxi to Ġgantija Temples will cost approximately €15-€20. Taxis are readily available at the harbor.

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Discover more about It-Tempji tal-Ġgantija

The Ġgantija Temples, meaning "place of giants" in Maltese, are located on the island of Gozo and are the earliest of the Megalithic Temples of Malta. These temples date back to 3600-3200 BC, making them over 5,500 years old and the world's second-oldest existing manmade religious structures after Göbekli Tepe in present-day Turkey. The name Ġgantija comes from the legend that a giantess built them. According to folklore, the giantess, named Sansuna, ate only broad beans and honey and had a child with a common man. While carrying her child, she constructed the temples as a place of worship. The Ġgantija complex consists of two temples, the South and North Temples, enclosed by a boundary wall. The South Temple, the older and larger of the two, dates back to around 3600 BC and consists of five apses. The North Temple was built later and features a terminal niche instead of a full apse at its rear. The entrances of both temples face southeast, a common orientation for Maltese temples. The builders used Coralline limestone for the outer walls and the softer Globigerina limestone for inner features like doorways, altars, and decorative slabs. Archaeological finds at Ġgantija include altar-type structures, a hearth showing evidence of burning, pottery, 'fat lady' statues, animal bones, and red ochre painted wall plaster. These discoveries suggest communal rituals, feasting, and possibly animal sacrifices took place here. The site includes an Interpretation Centre that displays artifacts and provides information about Neolithic life.

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