TarxienOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Neolithic Settlement to Roman Farm

Tarxien's history begins in the Neolithic period, around 3600 to 2500 BC. This era saw the construction of the Tarxien Temples, a complex of four megalithic structures. These temples demonstrate the engineering and artistic skills of their builders. The temples were used for rituals, possibly involving animal sacrifices, as evidenced by animal bones and flint knives found within the complex. The scale of the stones, some weighing several tons, indicates an organized society. Statuettes and reliefs, including 'fat ladies' and spiraling patterns, suggest a symbolic world. The temples were abandoned around 2500 BC, likely due to societal changes or migration.

A mix of Eras: From Prehistory to Modernity

After the temple builders, the Tarxien area was largely dormant until new settlers arrived. During the Bronze Age, around 1500 BC, a cremation cemetery was established on the site of the abandoned temples. This indicates a different culture using the ancient ruins for burial practices. Evidence suggests a settlement during the Roman period, likely a rural farm or villa, though less remains of this era compared to the prehistoric sites. The name 'Tarxien' is thought to derive from 'Tirix,' meaning a large stone, a direct reference to the megaliths. Over centuries, Tarxien became an agricultural village. The construction of the Marija Annunzjata Parish Church in the 17th century established the spiritual and communal center of the modern town. The church, with its baroque architecture, reflects the Catholic traditions that shape Maltese life. Today, Tarxien combines ancient history with contemporary Maltese culture.

• —Tarxien Temples — A UNESCO World Heritage site with megalithic temples dating to approximately 3600-2500 BC. Explore four temple structures, observe stone carvings including spirals and animal reliefs, and see remnants of colossal statues.
• —Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum — Entry is restricted and requires advance booking. You can view the exterior from the street. This subterranean necropolis, a UNESCO site, is a prehistoric underground structure carved from rock, dating to around 4000-2500 BC.
• —Marija Annunzjata Parish Church — This Baroque church, built in the 17th century, stands on Misraħ ir-Repubblika. It features a façade and a decorated interior, showing Maltese religious art and architecture.
• —Misraħ ir-Repubblika (Republic Square) — The central square of Tarxien. It contains the Parish Church, cafes, and shops, providing a view of daily life in the town.
• —Triq il-Kbira (Main Street of Tarxien) — This street passes through the town center, lined with traditional Maltese houses, some with enclosed balconies known as 'gallariji'.
• —Tarxien Menhir (Triq il-Menhir) — A solitary standing prehistoric megalith on a residential street. It serves as a reminder of the town's ancient past.

The best time to visit Tarxien is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, suitable for outdoor archaeological sites. Light conditions are good for photography, and tourist numbers are manageable. Avoid visiting in July and August, when temperatures can exceed 30°C, making outdoor activity uncomfortable. Winter (December to March) offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, but some attractions may have reduced opening hours, and there is a higher chance of rain.

Tarxien is accessible from Malta International Airport (MLA), approximately 4 kilometers away. A taxi ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Public buses connect Tarxien from various parts of Malta, including Valletta and the airport. The main bus stop, 'Antnin,' is near Misraħ ir-Repubblika. The town is best explored on foot, as main attractions like the Tarxien Temples and the Parish Church are within walking distance. Parking is available in designated areas, but can be difficult during peak hours. Malta drives on the left. Many smaller shops may close for a siesta in the early afternoon, especially in summer.