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If you are into the mystery of ancient civilisations and the mystique of their arts and crafts, then the Neolithic temples of Malta and Gozo will fascinate you, a kind of ancient “magical mystery tour”. They did the same thing to Eric Von Danekan, famous author of “Chariots of the Gods” and whose research and analyses all over the world popularised the study of archaeology and Indiana Jones type of discovery.
Perhaps the most famous is Hagar Qim temple which was excavated for the first time in 1839 and dates from what is known as the Ggantija phase (c. 3600 - 3200 BC). It stands on a hilltop on the southern edge of the island overlooking the sea and the islet of Filfla and lies some two kilometres south-west of the village of Qrendi.
It is within the geometric passageways and other eerie spaces marked by the massive stones of these temples that you can really feel the vibes of the civilisation that built them. The fact that these and other temples on Malta and Gozo actually pre-date both the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge is a source of much wonder and speculation amongst students and researchers alike.
Adjacent to Ħaġar Qim, further towards the cliff face, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra. The whole surrounding area, which is typical of Mediterranean garrigue and spectacular in its starkness and isolation, is a Heritage Park. The temples are soon to be given a bubble-like cover to finally protect them from the elements.
You have to wonder what the Neolithics would have thought of it. Dinosaur eggs waiting to hatch?
If temples are your thing, this is a must. It never fails to fascinate us when go and we are sure you will feel the same. By car you will need a good map to get there but by bus it is quite easy – just get to Valletta and then catch either the 138 or 38.
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