Ancient Wonders of Malta’s Megalithic Temples
UNESCO sites in Malta: Megalithic Temples of Malta (visited January 2020)
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Malta’s Megalithic Temples are not just ruins; they are whispers of a prehistoric past, some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world.
Visiting these temples isn’t just a journey through history – it’s a chance to marvel at human innovation and wonder how such monumental feats were achieved millennia ago.
I visited these temples in January 2020, and will share my experience, impressions and practical information.
A Legacy Older than the Pyramids
These structures are so ancient they predate the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. Built between 3600 and 2500 BCE, Malta’s Megalithic Temples are considered some of the earliest examples of complex architecture in human history.
This UNESCO World Heritage site includes six temple complexes scattered across the islands of Malta and Gozo (Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba, Ta’ Ħaġrat and Tarxien). Each temple reflects a distinct style and purpose, presenting the sophistication of its creators. These structures aren’t just piles of stones – they are carefully engineered spaces, designed for rituals, ceremonies, and possibly even astronomical observations.
Key terms explained
Bronze Age: Spanning roughly 3300 to 1200 BCE, it was a transformative period marked by the widespread use of bronze tools and weapons, advancements in metalworking, and the rise of complex societies with significant cultural and technological developments.
Megalith: Large stone structure or monument, often used for ceremonial or burial purposes, constructed during prehistoric times and found worldwide.
Summer solstice: Occurring around June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, is the longest day of the year when the Sun reaches its highest position in the sky, marking the start of summer.
Equinox: It occurs twice a year, around March 21 and September 23, when day and night are approximately equal in length as the Sun crosses the celestial equator.
If you want to know more about megalithic structures, I wrote a post on Newgrange and Knowth in Ireland, so check it out.
Ġgantija Temples
The Ġgantija Temples, located on the island of Gozo, are among the best-preserved and most impressive on the list.