The Ta’ Ħaġrat Temples on the Island of Malta

Near the town of Mġarr in Malta, there is a stone structure older than the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge. Designated as a World Heritage Site under UNESCO, the Ta’ Ħaġrat Temples, built between 3600 BCE and 3200 BCE, are some of the oldest religious sites in the world.

Excavations began on the site in the 1920s after archaeologists took an interest in a strange mound in the middle of a farmer’s field.

Upon excavation, the archaeologists made an interesting discovery inside the temple — a perfectly intact clay model of the temple.

Despite damage from the roots of a large carob tree, natural erosion, and the farmer’s use of stones from the temple to build a house, the site continues to remain unprotected.

Wind and precipitation continues to degrade the temple, and the site itself is threatened by land developers.

A tent similar to the ones used to protect Malta’s Ħaġar Qim from rain, wind, and hail would help tremendously.

Perhaps the allure of more tourism dollars may be the key to local and international support for the site’s defense.

Here is a short video I made of the site back when Instagram only allowed 15-second videos:

3 comments

  1. mukul chand – new delhi – 51 year old entrepreneur who has traveled extensively around the world for work and pleasure , is based in New Delhi, India. A passionate traveler born with a love for flora and fauna, is an active naturalist and amateur photographer. Here he shares his unique insight into Incredible India revealing its mysterious and exotic treasures. Writing from his heart he shares his experiences as he crisscrosses this vast and amazing land.
    mukul chand says:

    Wonderful Picture

    1. Shawn P. Mitchell – Global Citizen – Hi! I’m Shawn. 👋 I help build digital brands. I’m a content manager with over 10 years of experience in leadership, project management, customer service, and content strategy.
      Shawn P. Mitchell says:

      Thank you Mukul! These ruins may be relatively small, but considering that they are over 5,000 years old, it is definitely worth a visit. 🙂

      1. mukul chand – new delhi – 51 year old entrepreneur who has traveled extensively around the world for work and pleasure , is based in New Delhi, India. A passionate traveler born with a love for flora and fauna, is an active naturalist and amateur photographer. Here he shares his unique insight into Incredible India revealing its mysterious and exotic treasures. Writing from his heart he shares his experiences as he crisscrosses this vast and amazing land.
        mukul chand says:

        One day, maybe. Welcome

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