Tarxien: A Journey Through Time in Malta

• HelloMerħba
  [mer-hba]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yoj-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzani
  [skoo-za-nee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef int]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo int]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliz?
  [tit-kel-lem bing-lees]
• I don't understandNaqra
  [nak-ra]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq nara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyeck nara el-meyn-oo, yekk yoj-bok]
• I don't eat meatM'iniex inqajjim it-tiġieġ
  [min-yeks in-ya-meet it-tee-jeej]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nis-tyeck in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]

• Help!Għajjat!
  [ai-yat]
• Go away!Mur!
  [mur]
• Call the Police!Ibqgħu l-Pulizija!
  [ib-goo l-pu-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ibqgħu tabib!
  [ib-goo ta-beeb]
• I'm lostNinsab ħażin
  [nin-sab ha-zin]
• I'm illNixtieq infejjaħ
  [nis-tyeck in-fe-ya]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nis-tyeck in-ix-tree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [ked nara biss]
• How much is it?Kemm jiswa?
  [kem yis-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq għali
  [dan hoo-wa wees-kal-ee]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' toħroġ il-prezz?
  [tis-ta toh-rodge il-prez]

• What time is it?Xi ħin huwa?
  [she hin hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel waħda
  [hoo-wa lew-wel wa-hda]
• Half past (10)Noqsan (għaxar)
  [noq-san a-shar]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-jo-du]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-nofs-in-har]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [fil-ja-hee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bier-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [a-da]
• 1Waħda
  [wa-hda]
• 2Tnejn
  [tnayn]
• 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [hamsa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sebba'
  [seb-ba]
• 8Tmienja
  [tmi-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-ya]
• 10Għaxra
  [a-shra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hem]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shee-nu l-ind-ee-reets]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turiġġini (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta too-ridge-gi-ni fook il-map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta huwa l-veċċa li ġejja?
  [me-ta hoo-wa l-vech-cha li jay-ya]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet gal]

The Tarxien Temples, dating back to approximately 3150 BC, are a testament to Malta's prehistoric era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases intricate stone carvings, altars, and statues, including the famous 'Fat Lady' statues. These temples were a significant religious site for the ancient Maltese, reflecting their sophisticated society and advanced architectural skills.

The Tarxien Temples were discovered in 1913 by a local farmer who stumbled upon large stone blocks while plowing his fields. Excavations led by Sir Themistocles Zammit from 1915 to 1919 revealed the full extent of this prehistoric complex. The findings included pottery, tools, and animal bones, which provided insights into the daily life and rituals of Malta's ancient inhabitants.

After the decline of the temple-building culture around 2500 BC, Tarxien continued to be an important site during the Bronze Age. Evidence of this era includes the remains of a cremation cemetery discovered within the temple complex. This transition marks the evolution of burial practices and societal changes over millennia.

During World War II, Malta faced heavy bombardment, and there were concerns about the preservation of the Tarxien Temples. Protective measures were taken to safeguard this invaluable heritage site. Post-war efforts focused on restoration and conservation, ensuring that future generations could continue to explore and learn from these ancient structures.

Today, the Tarxien Temples are not only a significant archaeological site but also a cultural symbol for Malta. They attract thousands of visitors annually, contributing to the local economy and fostering a deeper appreciation for Malta's rich historical tapestry. Ongoing archaeological work and technological advancements continue to shed light on the mysteries of Tarxien, making it a dynamic field of study.

Tarxien is located in the southeastern part of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), approximately 5 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Tarxien. The journey typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or around 30 minutes by bus. Buses from the airport to Tarxien are frequent and cost-effective.

Tarxien is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local buses are readily available and connect Tarxien to other parts of Malta. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Taxis are another alternative, but they can be more expensive. Consider using ride-sharing apps for a more budget-friendly option.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit smaller establishments. ATMs are available throughout Tarxien, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed.

Tarxien is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Tarxien does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tarxien. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonġu' (Good Morning in Maltese). A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tarxien like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Maltese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the town and enjoy the local architecture.