Ġgantija Archaeological Park sits on a hilltop south of Xagħra, on Gozo, the smaller island next to Malta. The site holds the Ġgantija temples, among the oldest standing stone structures in Europe. The walls rise more than 6 metres, and the temples give wide views across southern Gozo. A museum next to the temples shows objects dug up on the site. Allow time to walk among the stones, read the displays and take in the setting.
Where the temples stand
The temples are on the crest of a hill to the south of Xagħra, one of Gozo's villages. From the top, the view covers most of southern Gozo, which explains why the site was chosen.
The park is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name comes from the Maltese word for giantess, and the temples are the largest of their kind on the Maltese Islands.
Building the temples
The walls stand more than 6 metres high, and the two temples together span over 40 metres. The stones are large and fitted together in a way that still shows in the remaining sections.
The temples date from between 3600 and 3200 BC, which places them earlier than Stonehenge. Parts of the structure are now in ruins, so the walls that remain are the best guide to the original shape.
For centuries the temples were hidden from view. They were discovered in the 1800s, and excavation followed.
The museum next door
An archaeological museum adjoins the temples. It shows objects found on the site, and several of them are in good condition. The displays help you picture daily life in the Neolithic period, so it is worth visiting before or after you walk the temples.
The museum is small, so plan a short visit inside before exploring the grounds.
Planning a visit
There is an admission fee, and tickets are best bought in advance. The park is open every day, and it has a restaurant on site for a meal or a drink between visits.
Parking is free in the car park, and free street parking is also available nearby. The entrance, restroom and parking are wheelchair accessible, and seating and an elevator are available as well.
Spring is the season to look for flowers around the site. Arrive early or outside the busiest guided tour times for the quietest walk among the stones.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, there is an admission fee. Tickets are recommended in advance.
How do you get to Ġgantija Archaeological Park?
The park is on Triq John Otto Bayer in Xagħra, Gozo, and parking is free in the car park.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restroom, parking lot and seating are wheelchair accessible, and there is an elevator.
Is there somewhere to eat at the park?
Yes, the park has a restaurant on site.
