Plizio Visual Lab

Il-Maqluba

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Il-Maqluba is a spectacular natural sinkhole located on the outskirts of Qrendi, formed by a sudden geological collapse in 1343. The near-circular depression measures approximately 50 meters in diameter and reaches a depth of 15 meters, creating a unique microclimate at its base. This protected site hosts a dense grove of Malta’s national tree, the Għargħar (Sandarac Gum Tree), along with massive Bay Laurel trees. Historically, the site is steeped in folklore, with legends suggesting a sinful village was swallowed by the earth as divine punishment for its inhabitants' behavior. Geologically, it is a classic solution doline, caused by the collapse of the upper limestone crust into a subterranean cavern. Today, Il-Maqluba is a designated Natura 2000 site, serving as an invaluable research area for ecologists and botanists focusing on its rare indigenous vegetation.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Il Maqluba · Il-Kappella tal-Madonna tal-Ħniena · Knisja Parrokkjali Marija Assunta
Nearby: Luqa (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best months to explore Il-Maqluba's unique micro-habitat are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the vegetation is lush and bird activity is higher. Summer can be very hot, while winter may bring rain making paths slippery, so shoulder seasons are recommended.

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Best time of day

Early morning and dusk provide the best light for photography and cooler temperatures for walking. During these times birds and other animals are most active. Avoid midday heat in summer and bring plenty of water.

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Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to protect fragile vegetation and avoid disturbing wildlife. Do not climb on the sinkhole edges and never feed any animals. Take all litter with you and respect the natural environment.

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What to bring

Sturdy footwear is recommended due to the uneven terrain around the sinkhole. Binoculars are useful for spotting birds and small wildlife in the dense canopy. A camera with zoom helps capture scenery without disturbance.

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Getting there

Il-Maqluba is located in the countryside near the village of Qrendi in southern Malta, accessible by car via minor roads. Parking is available nearby, and a short footpath leads to the viewing platform.

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What to expect

Wildlife sightings require patience; spend at least 30 minutes quietly observing the trees and shrubs. Do not expect large animals - focus on the rich variety of insects, reptiles and resident birds.

Geography

Coordinates

35.83000, 14.45900

Facts

The sinkhole was formed, according to historical accounts, in November 1343.
Il-Maqluba covers an overall area of approximately 6,000 square meters.
The base of the doline is inaccessible to the public to protect its fragile ecosystem.
It is one of the rare sites where the national Għargħar tree grows naturally.
The Chapel of St. Matthew stands directly on the rim of the sinkhole.
The name 'Il-Maqluba' translates from Maltese as 'the upturned' or 'the overturned'.