Hal Saflieni Hypogeum

The Basics

Visitors can only access the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum by guided tour. Great care has been taken to preserve the archaeological site, with dedicated walkways and soft lighting designed to minimize erosion, as well as strict limits on the number of visitors per day.

Tours explore the maze of underground chambers, passageways, and halls over three levels, with live commentary detailing the excavations and historical importance of the site. The hypogeum is close to some of Malta’s other prehistoric sites, and a popular choice is to combine a visit here with a stop at the nearby Tarxien Temples or the temple complex at Ġgantija on the island of Gozo.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Visitor numbers are strictly limited due to conservation reasons, so it’s essential to book in advance—tickets for high season sometimes sell out months before.

• Guided tours take around an hour. See a 20-minute audio-visual show at the on-site visitor center (payable separately).

• The site has steps and uneven ground, so wear flat, comfortable shoes.

• The hypogeum is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for visitors who suffer from claustrophobia. However, the visitor center is accessible.

How to Get There

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is located in Paola, a 15-minute drive south of Valletta. To get there by public transport, take bus 83, 84, or 91 from Valletta bus station.

When to Get There

Guided visits take place hourly throughout the year, but these can fill quickly in peak season (July and August), so be sure to book well in advance.

History of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Built between 3,600 and 2,500 years ago, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum was quarried down to 40 feet (12 meters) on three levels and used as a place of both worship and burial. The bones of more than 7,000 people were found during excavations in the early 20th century. The hypogeum’s uppermost—and oldest—layer comprised natural caves, which were filled with coffins; the second layer down has circular walls and arched ceilings and was a temple with several small chapels; the deepest level may have been used for grain storage.

How can I book tickets to visit the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum?

Tickets to the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum can only be booked in advance from the site’s official website. Last-minute tickets are more expensive, but can be bought on the day from Fort St Elmo and Gozo Museum of Archaeology, and after 12pm from the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.

Is visiting the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum worth it?

It depends. While ticket prices are relatively high, visiting Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is worth it if you have a particular interest in history or archaeology. The site is much older than the pyramids and is the world's only known prehistoric underground temple, featuring a burial complex that was in use roughly 6,000 years ago.

Is there a visitor limit for the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum?

Yes, there is a limit of 10 visitors at one time inside the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, which is why you have to book an entry time for advance tickets. The limit is enforced because the presence of people alters environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, which impact the preservation of the ancient site.

Are there any nearby attractions to the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum?

The only noteworthy nearby attraction to the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is the Tarxien Temples several streets over. Here visitors will find another prehistoric archaeological complex, where you can walk through several megalithic structures and see the prehistoric art that decorates them, such as bas-reliefs.

Is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum good for kids?

It depends. Children under the age of six are not allowed inside the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Older children may find the experience of descending through the temple interesting, but younger children may not fully appreciate it.

Can you take photos at the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum?

No, filming and photography while inside the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is prohibited for conservation purposes. Visitors are also asked not to wear high-heel shoes, sandals or flip-flops.