Maltese workers found the remains of the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in 1902 while digging a cistern. This underground burial site is 4000-5000 years old and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple has 50 rooms, scattered on 3 levels.
The Hypogeum was opened to the public in 1908. It was closed for 10 years from 1990-2000, while conservation projects were carried out. Ten visitors are allowed hourly for a total of 8 hours/day.
You'll need to reserve tickets in advance: https://heritagemalta.org/hal-saflieni-hypogeum/
Tickets are €35 each.
You'll be led on a 25-minuted guided tour after viewing a 10-minute video. Pictures are not allowed inside. I took a picture of the brochure showing the room known as the "holy of the holies." This was the most impressive room with 4 columns supporting a lintel, forming the entrance to another small chamber..
At first, I thought the €35 ticket price was steep but it is worth a visit.
2021 11 27
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