St. Paul's Catacombs: An Ancient Underground Cemetery
Explore the ancient St. Paul's Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, a fascinating underground cemetery revealing centuries of burial practices and early Christian history.
Explore St. Paul's Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, an extensive network of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries dating back to the 3rd century AD. Named for their proximity to St. Paul's Grotto, these catacombs offer a glimpse into early Christian burial practices and Malta's rich history, with over 20 catacombs open to the public.
A brief summary to St Paul’s Catacombs
- Hal-Bajjada, Rabat, MT
- +35621454562
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the catacombs have uneven floors and require some walking.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the underground environment can be cool and damp.
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the catacombs and visitor center.
- Check the Heritage Malta website for the latest opening hours and any special events.
- Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus numbers 51, 52, 53, or 56 from the Central Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and you should get off at the 'Rabat' stop. From there, walk straight up towards the center of Rabat; the catacombs are less than 10 minutes away. A single bus ticket costs around €2.
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Walking
From the Mdina Gate, walk along Triq il-Mużew towards Rabat. Turn right onto Triq Sant' Agata; the entrance to St. Paul's Catacombs will be on your left, approximately a 5-minute walk. Follow the signs for St. Paul's Catacombs.
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Driving
From any direction, follow signs towards Rabat. Once in Rabat, parking can be found along Triq Ħal Bajjada, though spaces are limited. Alternative parking is available at is-Saqqaja, il-Wesgħa tal-Mużew, or Triq Rudolph Saliba. From the parking areas, follow the signs to St. Paul's Catacombs, a short walk away. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €0.50-€1.00 per hour.
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