Ggantija Temples

The basics

These UNESCO-recognized structures were built during the Neolithic era, well before wheels or metal tools had come to the island, and, like a number of Maltese sites, were excavated in the 19th century. Today, the Ġgantija Temples are protected as part of a larger archaeological park, which also has a visitor center with interpretive panels. The temple complex is among the most popular attractions on Gozo, if not in the country, so most island tours and hop-on hop-off buses make a stop here.

Things to know before you go

• The temples are not only a must for history buffs, but also for anyone interested in ancient religious rites.
• Facilities include a museum shop and restrooms, but there are no on-site dining options.
• Most of your visit will be outside, possibly under direct sun, so sunscreen and bottled water are both musts.
• Most of the complex is flat and pathways are wide, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Getting to the Ġgantija Temples requires first getting to Gozo. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can either head to Valletta's Grand Harbour and take a fast ferry across to Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour or catch a boat from the ferry terminal Ċirkewwa. Once on Gozo, you'll then need to take a taxi to Ġgantija or hop on bus #322 to Bayer, a 5-minute walk from the complex.

When to get there

Ġgantija Archaeological Park is open every day of the week except for Tuesday. It’s closed annually on Good Friday, Christmas Eve and Day, and New Year's Eve and Day. It's wise to arrive first thing in the morning, not only to avoid crowds but also so that you can see the temples before the sun reaches its peak intensity.

While on Gozo

Though the Ġgantija Temples are the island's main draw, Gozo offers plenty more to see and experience. Particularly noteworthy structures include the Rotunda of Xewkija, designed to resemble the Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, as well as the Citadella of Rabat (Victoria), in the island's capital. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu is another must-visit—and many local Catholics consider it the holiest site on the island.