PaolaOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Where history whispers underground
What to do in Paola, this Maltese town with an exceptional prehistoric heritage? Often seen as a residential hub, Paola is in fact a historical treasure, home to the fascinating Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a unique UNESCO site, as well as the Tarxien Temples, impressive megalithic remains. To explore these riches in a fun way, our outdoor escape games offer an unusual activity, transforming your visit into a captivating scavenger hunt. Wander through the streets of Paola, from the majestic Christ the King Church to the ancient sites, and let yourself be guided by an urban treasure hunt. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the city's secrets at your own pace, with family or friends. Here is the trail we offer in Paola:
Paola — Hypogeum's Lost Ritual
Decipher ancient symbols and uncover the Hypogeum's forbidden rituals. Track the priests' secret code across Paola's sacred sites to reveal a lost civilization's chilling prophecy before it's sealed forever.
Paola — Elongated Skulls Enigma
Uncover the forbidden secret of 7,000 elongated skulls vanished from Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Decode prehistoric rituals and expose a cover-up in Paola's ancient sites.
Paola — Elongated Skulls Enigma
Uncover the forbidden secret of elongated skulls hidden in Paola's Hypogeum. Decode ancient rituals and expose a prehistoric conspiracy that defies human origins. Solve the enigma before it's buried forever.
Paola — Hypogeum's Sacred Curse
Uncover the curse of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Decode ancient rituals hidden in Paola's prehistoric temples and decode the priests' final secret before it claims another victim.
Landmarks of Paola
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Paola
For an unusual activity in Paola, our outdoor escape game plunges you into the heart of the island's millennia-old mysteries. Far from the beaten path, the trail invites you to decipher puzzles inspired by local history, revealing details that even guidebooks omit. Imagine exploring the surroundings of the Tarxien Temples with fresh eyes, searching for clues on ancient walls or in unexpected corners. It's an original outing that combines the excitement of a treasure hunt with Paola's rich culture, offering a unique perspective on this history-laden town.
Things to do in Paola with kids
What to do with the family in Paola? Our outdoor escape game is an ideal activity for children and teens, transforming a simple walk into an educational and fun adventure. Accessible from age 8, the scavenger hunt uses your phone's GPS to safely guide the younger ones, while the puzzles stimulate everyone's curiosity. Kids love searching for visual clues, teens get excited about cracking codes, and parents appreciate discovering Paola's heritage interactively. It's a teen-friendly outing that guarantees memorable souvenirs and a playful immersion in Maltese history.
Paola for couples
For a couples' outing or a romantic getaway in Paola, our outdoor trails offer an intimate and original way to discover the city. Away from the crowds, you'll share a unique experience solving puzzles together, hand in hand, through the historic streets. It's an unexpected romantic activity that strengthens bonds, turning each clue found into a moment of complicity. Imagine strolling near the Tarxien Temples at sunset, or exploring Paola's alleys, creating precious memories while uncovering the secrets of this fascinating town.
What to do in Paola when it rains
What to do in Paola when it rains? Although our escape games are outdoor activities, Malta's Mediterranean climate means showers are often short and intense, followed by clear skies. In light rain, the experience remains perfectly enjoyable. The game keeps you moving, and the engaging puzzles will quickly make you forget the weather. It's a wet-weather activity that can reveal a particular charm of Paola, with glistening streets and a more intimate atmosphere. Bring an umbrella and let yourself be surprised by the city's beauty in the rain.
Where is Paola, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Paola
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum Entrance
- Tarxien Temples (exterior view)
- Kordin III Megalithic Site (exterior view)
- Paola Local Council (Kunsill Lokali Paola)
- Main fountain of Pjazza Antoine De Paule
- St. Ubaldesca Church (Christ the King)
- Historic building on Triq Antoine De Paule
- Triq Hal Saflieni (between Triq Ic-Cimiterju and Triq Sant' Antnin)
- Entrance to Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
- Kordin III Megalithic Temples
- Christ the King Parish Church
- Pjazza Antoine De Paule (Paola Square)
- Triq L-Arkata
- Paola Local Council Office
- Paola Health Centre (Klinika Paola)
- In front of the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum entrance
- Pjazza Antoine De Paule
- Kordin III Megalithic Temple site (exterior)
The history of Paola
From Ancient Temples to a New Town
Paola, known as Raħal Ġdid (New Town), has a history spanning over 5,000 years. The area was a religious and cultural center for ancient temple-builders. The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground burial complex, was used between 4000 BC and 1500 BC. The Tarxien Temples were built around 3150 BC, showing building techniques and religious practices of early Maltese civilization.
The modern town of Paola was founded in 1626 by Grand Master Antoine de Paule of the Order of St. John. He established the new town on a hill called Tal-Għerien, initially naming it Casal Nuovo. To encourage settlement, Grand Master de Paule offered to help families with their debts. He also oversaw the construction of the first parish church, dedicated to St. Ubaldesca, with its foundation stone laid on August 25, 1630.
Growth and Modern Development
For centuries, Paola remained a small settlement. Its growth occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries, making it a commercial center for the southern harbor region. The main square, Pjazza Antoine De Paule, became a center for shopping and services. From 1905 to 1929, Paola Square had a stop for the Malta Tramways, connecting Valletta to Cospicua. In 1910, Paola became its own parish, and plans were made for a larger church. Construction of the Basilica of Christ the King began in 1924 and was completed by 1959, becoming the new parish church. In 2020, this church was elevated to the status of a minor basilica.
What to see in Paola
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum — An underground burial complex carved into limestone, used between 4000 BC and 1500 BC. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Tarxien Temples — A complex of four megalithic structures, built around 3150 BC. These temples have carvings, including animal reliefs and spiral motifs, and remnants of altars and statues.
- Kordin III Megalithic Site — A prehistoric temple site in the urban Grand Harbour area, dating to the Ġgantija phase (around 3600–3200 BC). It has the remains of a small trefoil-plan temple protected by a shelter structure.
- Christ the King Parish Church (Basilica of Christ the King) — The largest church in Malta, a Roman Catholic basilica in Paola. Built between 1924 and 1959, its architecture blends Baroque and Neo-classical styles, and it has a dome rising 60 meters high.
- St. Ubaldesca Church — The oldest church in Paola, a 17th-century Baroque building founded in 1629. It served as the town's first parish church.
- Pjazza Antoine De Paule — The town's main square and a commercial center. It has shops and cafes, and was once a stop for the Malta Tramways.
When to visit Paola
The best times to visit Paola are during the shoulder seasons: April to May and September to October. Temperatures are warm but comfortable, ranging from 18-26°C, suitable for sightseeing. Summers (June to August) are hot and dry, with average highs reaching 30°C in August. This is peak tourist season, with larger crowds. Winters (November to March) are mild but can be windy and have more rainfall, with average lows around 10°C in February. Some outdoor activities might be less enjoyable, and some attractions may have reduced hours.
Getting around Paola
Paola is about 5 km from Valletta. Malta International Airport (MLA) is the closest airport. Public transport, mainly buses, connects Paola to other major attractions across Malta. The town is compact enough to explore many of its key sites on foot, especially the prehistoric temples and the main square, which are within walking distance of each other.
Parking is available in and around the town center, though it may be challenging during peak hours. Paola is a commercial center, and its main square, Pjazza Antoine De Paule, is a central point for local activity. Smaller, family-run shops might have varied opening hours. Check specific opening times for attractions like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, as booking in advance is recommended due to limited visitor numbers.
Things you probably do not know about Paola
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
- What unexpected discovery led to the uncovering of this ancient underground complex? The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum was accidentally discovered in 1902 by a stone mason who was laying the foundations for a new house.
- St. Ubaldesca Church
- How did Grand Master Antoine de Paule encourage people to move to his newly founded town? Grand Master Antoine de Paule not only built the St. Ubaldesca Church, the first parish church in Paola, but also offered to help families with their debts if they settled in the new town.
- Tarxien Temples
- What unusual purpose did parts of the Tarxien Temples serve long after their original builders disappeared? Around 2000 BC, Bronze Age peoples repurposed sections of the Tarxien Temples complex into a cremation cemetery, indicating a continued, albeit different, use of the sacred site.
- Kordin III Megalithic Site
- What intriguing detail was found on a large stone at Kordin III, hinting at ancient connections? A peculiarly-shaped large stone found within the trefoil-shaped megalithic structure at Kordin III possibly had a maritime motif, suggesting symbolic or practical links to Malta's relationship with the sea.
- Christ the King Parish Church
- What unique feature allows light to filter through the spiral staircases of the bell towers in the Christ the King Parish Church? The spiral staircases (garigori) leading to the belfries of the Christ the King Parish Church feature a subtle modification in their design, allowing light to filter through between each step.
- Pjazza Antoine De Paule
- What form of public transportation once ran through Paola's main square in the early 20th century? From 1905 to 1929, Pjazza Antoine De Paule, the main square, hosted a stop for the Malta Tramways, connecting Valletta to Cospicua.
Questions about visiting Paola
How long should I plan to stay in Paola?
To see Paola's prehistoric sites and local character, a full day is recommended. This allows time for tours of the Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples, a visit to the Christ the King Basilica, and time in Pjazza Antoine De Paule. If you plan to visit the nearby Kordin III site, allow extra time.
What are the best ways to get around Paola?
Paola is a walkable town, with many major attractions, including the prehistoric sites and the main square, located close to each other. For reaching Paola from other parts of Malta, public buses are an option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for quicker journeys.
Is Paola suitable for families with children?
Yes, Paola offers experiences for families. The ancient temples and the Hypogeum provide educational opportunities. The town's squares offer open spaces, and local eateries can cater to various tastes. Be aware that the Hypogeum has age restrictions and requires advance booking.
What is the typical budget for a day in Paola?
A moderate budget for a day in Paola would cover entrance fees to major sites like the Hypogeum (which can be costly and requires booking in advance), a meal at a local restaurant, and public transport if needed. Expect to spend more for private tours or extensive souvenir shopping. Food and local transport are generally affordable.
Are there any specific cultural events or festivals in Paola?
Paola is known for its Good Friday procession. The feast of Christ the King is celebrated on the last Sunday of July, and the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes is celebrated on the first Sunday after August 17. These events offer a look into local traditions and religious festivities.
What are the main neighborhoods or areas to explore in Paola?
The central area around Pjazza Antoine De Paule is the heart of Paola, with shops and the Christ the King Basilica. The prehistoric sites, including the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, Tarxien Temples, and Kordin III Megalithic Site, form a historical zone that is easily navigable on foot. The town is next to Tarxien and Fgura, forming a larger urban area.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Paola cost?
Our outdoor escape games in Paola start at €12 per team (1 phone). This price gives your group access to a complete trail, whether you are 2 or 6 players using the same phone. If you want several people to follow the game on their own device, it's €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. There is no City Pass for Paola, as the city currently offers only one trail.
Are the Paola escape games suitable for children / families?
Yes, our escape game in Paola is perfectly suited for families and children aged 8 and up. The puzzles are designed to be accessible and fun for all ages, encouraging collaboration. Younger children love searching for visual clues in the urban landscape, while teenagers and adults appreciate the historical dimension and problem-solving challenges. The secure GPS guidance system ensures a smooth progression without the risk of getting lost in Paola's streets.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Paola last?
Allow between 1h30 and 2h30 to complete our outdoor escape game in Paola, depending on your pace and ability to solve the puzzles. Our games are designed to be played at your leisure, with no fixed start time. This allows you to easily integrate the activity into your sightseeing schedule, whether for a morning, an afternoon, or a slot between other discoveries.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not mandatory for our escape games in Paola, as you can purchase the game at any time and start whenever you wish. However, it is recommended to ensure a smooth experience and avoid any unforeseen issues. Once your purchase is complete, you instantly receive an activation code by email, usable whenever you like, with no expiry date. This guarantees flexibility for your adventure in Paola!
What is Paola known for? / What to visit in Paola?
Paola is primarily known for its exceptional prehistoric heritage. The most famous site is the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a UNESCO World Heritage underground burial complex dating from 4000 to 2500 BC. The city also houses the Tarxien Temples, remarkable megalithic structures. Don't miss the majestic Christ the King Parish Church, with its imposing dome. Our trail naturally incorporates the surroundings of these iconic sites, offering you a unique perspective on Paola's history.
When is the best season to visit Paola?
The best season to visit Paola, like the rest of Malta, is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Temperatures are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities like our escape game. The light is beautiful for photography, and there are fewer crowds than in mid-summer. Summer (July-August) is very hot, but games can be enjoyed early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Winter is mild and sunny, perfect for a quiet discovery of the city.
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Activities to discover nearby
Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences to book in advance.
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