Ħaġar Qim Temples in Malta: What to Know Before You Visit This Prehistoric Site

When visiting Malta, a trip to the Ħaġar Qim Temples is a must. This isn’t just another sightseeing stop, but a chance to step straight into one of the oldest architectural mysteries on the planet.

This prehistoric complex sits proudly on a hilltop in Qrendi, in the south of Malta, overlooking the Mediterranean beyond. From up here, you can see why the site was chosen as the landscape feels quiet and deeply atmospheric. What you see today is only part of what was previously there. Archaeologists believe the complex once had higher walls, roofed chambers, and carefully planned courtyards used for ritual gatherings.

To set the scene for your visit, here are five fascinating facts about Ħaġar Qim that make it one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world. Further below, we also provide you with all the essential details so you can play your trip to Ħaġar Qim Temples in Malta with ease.

Wondering how old is Ħaġar Qim? Archaeologists date the temple complex to around 3600–3200 BC, which officially makes it one of the oldest free-standing stone structures on Earth. The site forms part of the Megalithic Temples of Malta, all collectively recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So when you visit, you’re essentially walking through a time capsule of early human creativity. a place where community, ritual, and innovation intertwined thousands of years before the concept of “civilisation” even fully formed.

Most people hear about the solstice alignment at Mnajdra, but Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples Malta share more than just a hillside. Ħaġar Qim itself includes an aperture that captures the summer solstice sunrise, projecting a beam of light onto a decorated slab deep inside the temple.

This isn’t random. It hints that the people who built Ħaġar Qim had a sophisticated understanding of the sun’s seasonal movements — long before astronomy had a name.

One of the largest megaliths at the site weighs around 57 tonnes. To put that into perspective that’s heavier than a fully loaded fuel tanker. Researchers still debate how prehistoric builders transported such huge stones uphill, let alone positioned them with such precision.

From upright orthostats to carefully carved thresholds, some even featuring “rope holes”, the engineering behind temple Ħaġar Qim remains one of Malta’s greatest ancient achievements.

Ħaġar Qim is home to some of the most refined spiral and plant-like stone carvings in Maltese prehistory. These motifs often symbolise cycles of life or cosmic rhythms. Whether or not we interpret them correctly, the craftsmanship speaks volumes. Whoever built this site wasn’t just constructing walls, they were expressing ideas that reflected their beliefs and culture.

Among the artefacts discovered here are several rounded, stylised figurines resembling the famous “Fat Lady” statues. They’re often linked to fertility rituals, though modern scholars emphasise that there’s no single definitive interpretation. Still, they give us a rare glimpse into the spiritual world of the temple builders.

If you’re planning to visit the Ħaġar Qim Temples Malta, here’s a handy go-to guide for getting there, booking your tickets, and making the most of your experience, with practical tips that bring the place to life.

From the capital city of Valletta, you can catch the bus route 74, operated by Malta Public Transport, which will take you to the temples. The bus departs from stop A5 at the Valletta bus terminus and arrives at the “Hagar, Il-Qrendi” stop, just a short walk from the site. The ride takes around 40 minutes.

If you’re driving, you’ll reach Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park in around 30 minutes from Valletta, traffic depending. There is a public parking area right outside the visitor centre, making it easy for cars and taxis alike.

When visiting the temple Hagar Qim, you’ll not only explore the ancient stone structure but also the modern multimedia exhibition and museum at the visitor centre, which gives fascinating insight into the island’s Neolithic life and how the monuments were built.

The Ħaġar Qim Temples are open daily throughout the year, but opening hours can vary by season, so it’s advisable to check their official website before you go. The site is typically open from 1 April to 30 September, from 9:00am to 6:00pm (with last admission around 5:30pm), while from 1 October to 31 March, it operates from 9:00am to 5:00pm (last admission around 4:30pm). The temples and visitor centre are closed on 24, 25, and 31 December, 1 January, and Good Friday.

For entry, you can secure your ticket right at the site entrance or in advance via the Heritage Malta website. A standard ticket gives you access to both Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Temples as well as the exhibition areas

There’s also a “Prehistoric Combo Ticket” which covers multiple megalithic sites, great if you’re keen to explore more of Malta’s ancient past. Concessions apply (students, seniors, persons with disabilities) and remember to check any guided-tour add-ons when booking.

If you or someone in your group uses a wheelchair or has limited mobility, you’ll be pleased to know the site is well prepared. The parking area is smooth and even, ramps lead into the visitor centre, and there are designated disability parking spaces just outside the entrance.

The visitor centre’s exhibition spaces are also designed to be accessible, and staff at Heritage Malta are ready to assist those requiring special support. It’s a welcome approach for making the experience inclusive.

Why not make a full day of it? After exploring the temples, head a little further to Wied iż‑Żurrieq for a boat trip out to the stunning Blue Grotto, a spectacular natural sea cave nearby. Then wrap up with lunch or a relaxed dinner at one of the seaside restaurants in the area, making for a perfect Maltese day out.

If you’re staying at one of our award-winning AX Hotels in Sliema, Qawra, Valletta, or Rabat, feel free to reach out to our dedicated service team.

We’ll be happy to share personalised tips for visiting the Ħaġar Qim Temples in Malta, help you plan the best route, and suggest nearby stops like Mnajdra, Wied iż-Żurrieq, or the Blue Grotto, ensuring you make the most of your day in this historic corner of the island.