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Santa Verna: Echoes of Gozo's Prehistoric Past

Explore Santa Verna in Xagħra, Gozo: Uncover Malta's prehistoric roots at this ancient megalithic site and village, dating back to 5000 BC.

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Santa Verna, located in Xagħra, Gozo, is an archaeological site encompassing the remains of a megalithic temple and a prehistoric village. Pottery remnants indicate the village dates back to 5000 BC. Though the temple is now in poor condition, it was likely a significant religious site, potentially rivaling other major temples in Malta.

A brief summary to Santa Verna

  • 27W5+8C5, Xagħra, MT

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ġgantija Temples, another significant megalithic site in Xagħra.
  • Check out other attractions in Xagħra, such as Xerri's Grotto and Ninu's Cave, for a more complete experience of the area.
  • Visit early in the day for a quieter, more intimate experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Santa Verna is located in Xagħra, easily accessible from the town square. From the Xagħra Parish Church, walk along Triq 8 ta' Mejju, turning right onto Triq Sant' Anton. Continue along this road; Santa Verna will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Xagħra, connecting it to Victoria and the Gozo Ferry Terminal. From Victoria, take bus 307 or 322 to Xagħra. Get off at the Ġgantija bus stop. From there, walk along Triq 8 ta' Mejju, turning right onto Triq Sant' Anton. Continue along this road; Santa Verna will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. A single bus ticket costs €2.50 in summer and €2.00 in winter.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt, Uber, and eCabs are available throughout Gozo. A taxi from the Mġarr Ferry Terminal to Santa Verna typically costs between €15-€20 and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Santa Verna

Santa Verna, nestled in the village of Xagħra on the island of Gozo, Malta, offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past. This archaeological site was once a village and a megalithic temple, with the earliest pottery remains tracing back to around 5000 BC, during the Għar Dalam phase. This era marks the initial human occupation and the development of early settlement patterns in Malta. Built in the centuries following the village's establishment, the Santa Verna temple likely held considerable importance, possibly rivaling other major temples like Ġgantija, Tarxien, and Ħaġar Qim. The temple featured a trefoil shape, typical of the time, signifying architectural and religious advancements. Today, only three upright megaliths, three horizontal blocks lining their eastern side, and the earth floor remain, allowing visitors to envision the temple's original layout. Nikola Said, a Public Works Department worker, discovered the megalithic remains, which archaeologist Manuel Magri noted in the early 20th century. Excavations in 1908 and 1911 unearthed two complete skeletons, several incomplete ones (including a child), and numerous smaller artifacts. Further excavations in 2015 revealed the temple's five-apsed plan during the Ġgantija phase and provided evidence of the earlier settlement, including ancient animal bones, wheat, barley, and legumes. Visiting Santa Verna provides an educational experience, allowing tourists to appreciate the historical significance of the artifacts. The peaceful ambiance and well-curated displays create a serene environment for reflecting on Malta's past.

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