National Museum of Archaeology

The National Museum of Archaeology currently houses a spectacular range of artefacts dating back to Malta's Neolithic period; from the Ghar Dalam phase (5200 BC) up to the Tarxien phase (2500 BC). It is housed in the Auberge de Provençe, in Republic Street, Valletta. The building is an example of a fine Baroque building erected in Malta's capital city, Valletta. The Auberge de Provençe, which dates back to 1571, was house to the Knights of the Order of St John and when compared to other auberges it has a superior design expressing some of the best Baroque architecture in Malta.

On display at the National Museum of Archaeology are the earliest tools used by the prehistoric people to facilitate their daily tasks; representations of animal life and also human figures, both elements showing the great artistic skills of the dwellers of the island at the time also giving us an insight on their daily lives. The National Museum of Archaeology presents the visitor with a good introduction to the prehistory of the Maltese Islands and is the catalyst to the other archaeological sites in Malta. Works are currently undergoing to include the Bronze Age, Phoenician, Punic, Roman and Byzantine period displays on the Upper Floor.

Highlights of the museum include the Sleeping Lady, the Venus of Malta, an Obsidian Core, a Headless Seated figure, a Tarxien Altar, an Empracing Couple, an Axe Pendant, an Ochre, a floral Altar and a roofed Temple model.

Opening hours

Monday to Sunday: 9.00-19.00

Last admission: 18.30

Closed: Good Friday, 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January

Tickets

Adults (18 - 59 years): €5.00

Students and Senior Citizens: €3.50

Children: €2.50

Infants (1 -5 years): Free