Pre-historic Buildings

About Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples

The temple of Hagar Qim, excavated for the first time in 1839, dates to c. 3600 - 3200 BC. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Filfla. Just 500m away from Hagar Qim, further towards the cliff face, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra, set in a hollow above the Southern cliffs. The surrounding area, which is typical of Mediterranean garigue and spectacular in its starkness and isolation, is designated a Heritage Park. Much of interest has been unearthed at Hagar Qim, notably a decorated pillar altar, two tablealtars and some of the ‘fat lady’ statues on display in the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. Mnajdra is probably the most atmospheric of all Malta’s temples. It is a complex site consisting of three temples overlooking an oval forecourt. The oldest temple is a simple three-apsed building which dates back to 3600-3200 BC. The most impressive of the Mnajdra temples is the third, with its largely intact façade and bench constructed in 3150–2500 BC.

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