Valletta Attractions
Hypogeum © Malta Tourist Authority
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
The Hypogeum, just southwest of the Three Cities in the suburb
of Paolo, is a labyrinthine complex of man-made chambers hewn out
of limestone, extending about 36ft (11m) below the surface. Experts
believe it was used as a burial site and temple by Neolithic man,
who used antlers and stone picks to carve out the labyrinth in
semi-darkness nearly 5,000 years ago. The site has been declared a
UNESCO World Heritage site. Archaeologists have recovered numerous
statues, amulets, figurines and vases, many of which are on display
in the Archaeology Museum in Valletta.
Address: Burial Street, Paola;
Website: www.heritagemalta.org;
Telephone: 2180 5018/9;
Opening time: Daily 9am to 11am and 1pm to 4pm (only 10 visitors per hour);
Admission: €20 (adults), €12 (children 6 - 11). Advance booking required
