Malta’s compact islands pack a long human story into a small area: prehistoric temples, underground burial chambers, and a fortified capital that reflect millennia of activity. That concentration makes visiting several heritage sites in a short trip very doable.
There are 3 World Heritage Sites in Malta, ranging from City of Valletta to Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. For each, the data is organized as Location,Inscription year,Significance, as listed below.
Which sites are included and where can I find them?
The three inscribed sites are the City of Valletta (the fortified capital on Malta’s main island), the Ġgantija Temples (on Gozo), and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (a subterranean burial complex at Paola). Each has an easy-to-find footprint and signage; Ġgantija requires a short ferry ride to Gozo.
Can I visit all of them in one trip and any practical tips?
Yes, they’re reachable in a few days: Valletta is walkable, Ġgantija is day-trip friendly from Malta, and the Hypogeum has strict visitor limits—book tickets well in advance. Respect site rules, stick to guided paths where required, and check seasonal opening times before you go.
World Heritage Sites in Malta
| Name | Location | Inscription year | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| City of Valletta | Malta island, Valletta; 35.8989, 14.5146 | 1980 | A masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a fortified city of the Knights. |
| Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum | Malta island, Paola; 35.8696, 14.5070 | 1980 | A unique prehistoric underground structure, a sanctuary and necropolis from c. 4,000-2,500 BC. |
| Megalithic Temples of Malta | Malta and Gozo islands; various locations, e.g., 36.0473, 14.2691 | 1980 | Some of the oldest freestanding stone buildings in the world, predating Stonehenge. |
Images and Descriptions
City of Valletta
Explore this fortified city, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture built by the Knights of St. John. Key sights include St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace. The entire city is the site, so wander its grid-like streets to fully appreciate its historic charm.
Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
Discover a massive subterranean complex carved from rock, serving as both a sanctuary and necropolis. Its three levels feature intricate chambers and unique red ochre paintings. Tickets are extremely limited and must be booked months in advance for this unforgettable experience.
Megalithic Temples of Malta
This site includes seven prehistoric temples across Malta and Gozo, like Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim. These monumental structures are architectural masterpieces from the Neolithic period. Visitors can explore several of these ancient wonders, each offering a unique glimpse into Malta’s deep past.
