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Hagar Qim Temples
Malta
The Hagar Qim temples form part of Malta's unique prehistoric legacy. The Mnajdra temples are just a ten minute walk away and there's a state of the art visitor centre. The protective tents are not to everyone's liking but they do make a visit much more comfortable under the summer's scorching sun.
The Hagar Qim temples are the most picturesque out of the series of megalithic temples found in Malta. They are is situated on a hilltop with a backdrop of the Mediterranean sea expanse and the quaint islet of Filfla, giving them a beautiful and timeless setting.
Dating back to circa 3600-3200 B.C., Hagar Qim was first excavated in 1839. A number of important artefacts were unearthed, namely, a decorated pillar altar, two table-altars and some of the 'fat lady' statues which are now on display at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta.
Hagar Qim itself consists of a single temple unit. However, it is not clear if it was originally constructed as a four- or five-apse structure. Particularly noteworthy are the larger orthostats at the corners, which are notched to take the second of the horizontal courses above. Beyond the first pair of apses, the temple interior is more firmly screened off than is usual at other temple sites. Visual access seems to have been limited to porthole slabs.
In the external enclosing wall, the first orthostat behind the right-hand corner of the façade is one of the largest of any temple. Standing at 6.4m long, it is estimated to weigh close to 20 tonnes. The upright menhir stands 5.2m high.
Just 500m away from Hagar Qim, further towards the cliff face, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra set in a hollow above the Southern cliffs. The surrounding area, which is typical of Mediterranean garigue and spectacular in its starkness and isolation, is designated a Heritage Park.
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 9.00-17.00
Last admission: 16.30
Closed: 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January, Good Friday
Tickets
Adults (18 - 59 years): €9.00
Students (12 - 17 years), Senior Citizens (60 years and over): €6.50
Children (6 -11 years): €4.50
Infants (1 -5 years): Free
Multi Site Tickets are available.
Budget
- Moderately Priced
Best For Whom
- Backpackers
- Groups
- Mature Travellers
Best For What
- A View To Die For
- Cultural Experience
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