Tour of the Megalithic Temples

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Tour Times: 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM

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Hassle-free

Cancellation

6 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Moderate

Sightseeing/City Tour Archaeological/Cultural

Overview

Leaving the port behind, your first visit will be the site of the temple of Hagar Qim. The Temple of Hagar Qim (c. 3600 - 3200 BC) stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Filfla. The views out across the sea from here are beautiful with breath taking views and there are fantastic photo opportunities.

The temple itself consists of a single temple unit, although it is not clear if it was originally constructed as a four or five-apse structure. Other temple ruins stand a few meters away from the main temple and the forecourt and facade follow the pattern typical of temples across the Islands.

Various items of interest have been unearthed at Hagar Qim, notably a decorated pillar altar, two table-altars and some of the 'fat lady' statues which are now on display in the National Museum of Archaeology.

From here, your tour continues as you make your way over to visit one of the three temples of Tarxien, the best example of the megalithic culture of the Copper Age. Tarxien was the first temple site to be excavated and it offers a unique collection of stone idols and tablets, domestic animals carved in relief, altars and screens decorated with spiral designs and other patterns, oracular chambers and riches enhance the attractions of these temples.

The site lay hidden for centuries until its discovery in 1914, when farmers struck large stone blocks while ploughing a field. Malta's first director of Museums excavated the site in 1915-17. Fertility goddess figures;(now in the national museum in Valetta) discovered at the ruins indicates that the temples were dedicated to the Earth Mother, as were many Maltese temples.

The most famous of these figures is a sculpture of large hips with feet, dubbed the 'Fat Lady' Spherical stones also found at the site have provided a valuable clue as to how the great stones of Malta's megalithic temples were moved into place - they were probably rolled on the stones while being towed with ropes.

Next, your visit takes you to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk where you can enjoy the beautiful waterfront area; with its multi-coloured boats, stone houses, and where you can watch the local fishermen repairing their nets as they dry out in the sun or simply relax and enjoy this beautiful village with a coffee.

Your memorable tour ends with a drive back to the port to meet your cruise ship in plenty of time for your departure.

Please note:
Churches and cathedrals are closed to tourists on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. Therefore the order of itineraries may change according to the days of the week selecting. The Cathedrals are also closed on Mondays and Thursday. The order of the site visits can be changed at the discretion of the guide and subject to entrance timings.

All Heritage Malta Sites (most museums and sites) are closed on the following days: 24,25 and 31 December, 1 January and Good Friday.

What's Included

Air conditioned vehicle
English speaking guide
The Temple of Hagar Qim
Tarxien Temple Site
Marsaxlokk Village visit

Considerations

Food and drinks are not included
Bring cash/local currency for any additional purchases on the day.
Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash.

Special Instructions

There are opportunities to souvenir shop in the various villages, ask your guide on the day for advice on where to shop.
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Bring everything you need for a half day of touring - sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, water bottle and camera.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.

Tour Times: 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM

Hassle-free

Cancellation

6 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Moderate

Tour of the Megalithic Temples

Overview

What's Included

Considerations

Special Instructions

Meeting and Pickup

Book Now

Price Info

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