Historic Sites in Malta: 15 Must-See Landmarks from the Knights to Prehistory (2026)
Malta has 7,000 years of history — from megalithic temples older than the pyramids to the Knights of St John's grand fortifications. Here are the 15 best historic sites in Malta and Gozo.
Prehistoric Sites in Malta
1. Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
6aġar Qim and Mnajdra are megalithic temples dating back to 3600-3200 BC — older than the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. The temples overlook the sea on Malta's south coast.
2. Ġgantija Temples, Gozo
Ġgantija Temples in Gozo are the world's oldest free-standing structures, dating to 3600 BC. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Gozo's most important historic attraction.
3. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
The Hypogeum is an underground necropolis dating to 4000 BC, carved from solid rock. Only 10 visitors per hour — book weeks ahead.
4. Tarxien Temples
The Tarxien Temples are a complex of four megalithic structures dating to 3150-2500 BC, with intricate stone carvings.
Knights of St John Sites in Malta
5. Valletta
Valletta itself is a UNESCO World Heritage city, built by the Knights of St John after the Great Siege of 1565. The entire city is a historic site — walk the streets and see the St John's Co-Cathedral and Grand Master's Palace.
6. Mdina (The Silent City)
Mdina is Malta's old capital, a walled city on a hill in the centre of the island. Narrow streets, medieval buildings, and cathedral.
7. Fort St Elmo
Fort St Elmo is the star-shaped fort that defended Valletta during the Great Siege of 1565. Now home to the National War Museum.
8. The Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea, Cospicua)
The Three Cities were the Knights' original base before Valletta was built. Birgu (Vittoriosa) is the best preserved, with narrow streets and the Maritime Museum.
9. Fort Rinella
Fort Rinella is a Victorian fort built to defend Malta against naval attack, housing one of the world's largest cannons.
Medieval and Other Historic Sites
10. Mosta Rotunda
The Mosta Rotunda has the third-largest unsupported dome in the world. In WWII, a bomb pierced the dome during Mass but failed to explode — a miracle.
11. Dingli Cliffs
Dingli Cliffs are Malta's highest point, with a small medieval chapel at the edge. The cliffs have been farmed for centuries.
12. Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is Malta's traditional fishing village, with colourful luzzu boats. The village dates to the Knights' era.
13. Citadella, Gozo
The Citadella in Victoria, Gozo, is a fortified medieval citadel with cathedral and museums. Free to walk the walls.
14. Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is a series of sea caves on Malta's south coast. Boat trips (€8) show the spectacular blue water.
15. Popeye Village
Popeye Village is the remains of the 1980 film set, now a tourist attraction. Quirky rather than historic, but fun for families.
Tips for Visiting Historic Sites in Malta
- Buy a Heritage Malta pass — covers multiple sites including temples and museums
- Book the Hypogeum weeks ahead — only 10 visitors per hour
- Visit temples early or late — midday sun is fierce
- Combine Mdina with Rabat — the catacombs are nearby
- Check the weather — outdoor sites are best in cooler months
