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St. Paul's Catacombs

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Historical site
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St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)

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St. Paul's Catacombs in Rabat comprise the largest and most significant complex of interconnected underground Roman cemeteries in Malta. Spanning over 2,000 square meters, these catacombs were used from the 3rd to the 8th century AD, providing a burial site for Christians, Pagans, and Jews alike. A defining architectural feature of the site is the presence of circular 'agape tables' (triclinia) carved from the living rock, which were used for ritual commemorative meals. The complex consists of more than 30 individual hypogea, containing various grave types such as canopy tombs and shaft burials. Despite their name, there is no archaeological evidence linking them directly to St. Paul's stay in 60 AD, though the name reflects local religious traditions. Now professionally managed by Heritage Malta, the site has a deep look into late antique burial customs and the diverse religious fabric of the Maltese population during the Roman administration.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The catacombs are open to the public; you can walk through the underground corridors and chambers. Entry is ticketed, with exact prices varying.
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Typical hours
The catacombs are typically open daily from morning to afternoon. It is advisable to check the current schedule before visiting.
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Photography
Photography inside is allowed without flash, as the ancient frescoes and structures are sensitive. A torch can help create atmospheric shots.
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Time needed
A thorough visit takes about one to one and a half hours to explore the whole complex. Allow extra time for a guided tour or audio guide.
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Combine with
The catacombs are near St. Paul's Church in Rabat. Visiting the nearby Domvs Romana Museum or Roman villa makes a well-suited addition.
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Getting there
By bus from Valletta, take route 51, 52, or 53 to Rabat; the journey takes about 30 minutes. The catacombs are a five-minute walk from the main square.
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Insider tip
Bring a light jacket as it is cool and damp underground. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the silence.

Geography

Coordinates
35.88080, 14.39720

Facts

  • Used between the 3rd and 8th centuries AD
  • Total area exceeds 2,000 square meters
  • Contains Christian, Jewish, and Pagan burials
  • Features rock-cut 'agape tables' for rituals
  • Consists of over 30 interconnected hypogea
  • Largest Roman underground cemetery in Malta

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rabat, MaltaRabat, Malta<1 km · EExplore →
Mtaħleb ValleyMtaħleb Valley1 km · SWExplore →
Il-Qlajja HillIl-Qlajja Hill2 km · NEExplore →
DingliDingli3 km · SWExplore →
Buskett GardensBuskett Gardens3 km · SEExplore →
Victoria Lines FaultVictoria Lines Fault3 km · NExplore →
Bahrija PlateauBahrija Plateau3 km · NWExplore →
Olive Oil Tasting MaltaOlive Oil Tasting Malta3 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town St. Paul's Catacombs (10)

St. Agathe Catacombs

St. Agathe Catacombs are underground burial chambers.

St Paul's Catacombs

St Paul's Catacombs are Christian catacombs in Malta.

St Pauls Catacombs

St Pauls Catacombs are Christian catacombs in Malta.

the heritage

The heritage gallery hosts cultural exhibitions.

Wignacourt Museum and Saint Paul's Grotto🏛 museum

Wignacourt Museum and Saint Paul's Grotto is a museum and cave.

Collegiate Church of St Paul

Collegiate Church of St Paul is a church in Rabat.

Statue of Saint Paul

Statue of Saint Paul is a monument.

Saint Paul's column

Saint Paul's column is a column.

Casa Bernard

Casa Bernard is a historic building.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are St. Paul's Catacombs?
It is a vast underground system of Roman burial places in Rabat.
Are the catacombs suitable for people with claustrophobia?
Some passages are narrow and low, but there are also larger chambers.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan for about 60 to 90 minutes for the visit.
Is it cool down there in summer?
Yes, underground the temperatures are much more pleasant than outside.
Is there an audio guide available?
Yes, audio guides are often included in the entry price or available.
St. Paul's Catacombs: where is it located?
St. Paul's Catacombs is located in Malta.
St. Paul's Catacombs: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Agathe Catacombs, St Paul's Catacombs, St Pauls Catacombs.
St. Paul's Catacombs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
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History & landmarks

Limestone Heritage — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
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A park celebrating the history of stone masonry in Malta.
Salina Salt Pans — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
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Nature

🗺️
Mtaħleb Valley
A fertile valley that slopes down to the sea, home to one of Malta's few streams.
Il-Qlajja Hill — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Il-Qlajja Hill
A prominent hilltop near Mdina.
Victoria Lines Fault — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
Bahrija Plateau — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Bahrija Plateau
A rural plateau with beautiful views and walking trails.
Ta&#39; l-Agħara Hill — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Ta' l-Agħara Hill
A flat hilltop near Ħal Qormi.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay
A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by clay slopes and cliffs.
Għar Lapsi Cove — St. Paul's Catacombs (Malta)
Għar Lapsi Cove
A small rocky inlet popular with divers and snorkelers.

More places

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Ruins of a Roman townhouse featuring fine mosaics.
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Several farms offer tasting sessions of their locally produced olive oil.
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