Malta is home to some of the oldest and arguably most mysterious megalithic structures known to man, older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge.
Malta’s ancient temples date back to 3600 to 2500 BC. Some theorists, such as Graham Hancock, the host of the Netflix series “Ancient Apocalypse,” suggest that they might be around 11,000 years old and that their construction could have aligned with the placement of the star Sirius. At a minimum, the temples of Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, Tarxien, and Ġgantija are some of the oldest structures on Earth, and they remain an ever-growing mystery to archaeologists and history enthusiasts alike.
Malta’s megalithic structures are an enigma
The ancient temples found in the Maltese archipelago indicate the existence of an advanced Neolithic society. Not much is known about these prehistoric people, as they did not leave behind any written records, only their buildings and a few artifacts. As a result, debates have run wild, challenging preconceived timelines and beliefs about cultures that existed long ago.
“Think about it: Could those farmers, who archaeologists tell us never built anything bigger than a shack, really have achieved all this?” Hancock said in episode three of Ancient Apocalypse.
Whether it was an unheard-of civilization from 11,000 years ago or the Neolithic people believed to have resided there, it is undeniable that if these mysterious structures could speak, they would have some incredible stories to tell.
Ġgantija Temples
The Ġgantija Temples on Malta’s Gozo island are among the world’s oldest freestanding structures, built between 3600 and 3200 BCE. Named after the Maltese word for “giant” due to the massive limestone blocks, local legend says they were built by mythical giants. The site includes two interconnected temples with a cloverleaf-shaped layout, featuring inner chambers, altars, and niches.
These elements suggest their use for religious rituals, as the ruins contain statues resembling the Mother Goddess, an ancient deity in Malta. A testament to the ingenuity of Neolithic Malta, the temples were built without metal tools or the wheel, utilizing advanced construction techniques like corbelled walls and massive upright stones. Predating Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, this UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights the unanticipated early sophistication of Malta’s prehistoric society.
Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra
The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, located on Malta’s southern coast, are stunning examples of Neolithic architecture, built between 3600 and 2500 BCE. Ħaġar Qim, meaning “standing stones,” features massive limestone blocks, altars, and intricate carvings, suggesting its use for religious and ceremonial purposes.
Mnajdra is known for its astronomical accuracy, with its entrance perfectly aligning with the sunrise during the equinoxes and solstices. The temples, constructed without metal tools or the wheel, like the Ġgantija temples, are another example of how advanced this Neolithic society was. Both sites are surrounded by scenic views of the Mediterranean and are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tarxien Temples
The Tarxien Temples, yet another UNESCO Heritage site, are located near modern-day Paola in Malta, were constructed between 3600 and 2500 BCE, and are renowned for their intricate carvings and elaborate design. This temple complex features stone reliefs depicting spirals, animals, and patterns, along with evidence of ritualistic practices, including animal sacrifices.
The temples are believed to have served as a focal point for community worship and ceremonies, with altars and large stones likely used in religious rituals. The site reflects the skill of Malta’s prehistoric builders, showcasing advanced stoneworking techniques. Numerous artifacts, including figurines and tools, have been uncovered here, providing insight into the spiritual and daily lives of the Neolithic people.
Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni
The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, located in Paola, Malta, is an underground Neolithic burial site dating back to 3300–2500 BCE. This extraordinary structure, carved entirely into limestone, consists of multiple chambers spread across three levels, with intricate red ochre wall paintings still visible in some areas. It is believed to have served as both a burial site and a ceremonial space Over 7,000 human remains have been uncovered, along with artifacts like figurines, tools, and pottery.
Among its most famous discoveries is the Sleeping Lady, a small figurine thought to symbolize fertility or the afterlife. The Hypogeum’s sophisticated architecture, including corbelled ceilings and acoustically resonant spaces, highlights the advanced skills of its builders. The site offers a rare glimpse into Malta’s prehistoric culture and its complex spiritual beliefs.