St Paul's Catacombs Rabat - a very old looking room with a bunch of arches
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St Paul's Catacombs Rabat

4.3
·11k reviews·Ir-Rabat, Malta

Explore ancient Roman underground burial chambers, a cool and historical adventure offering a unique glimpse into Malta's past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Escape the heat underground

CrowdMedium
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St Paul's Catacombs Rabat - a very old looking room with a bunch of arches

St Paul's Catacombs Rabat

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Escape the heat underground

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore ancient Roman underground burial chambers, a cool and historical adventure offering a unique glimpse into Malta's past.

4.3
(11k reviews)

"A fascinating glimpse into early Christian history, walking through underground passages feels like stepping back in time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Both Sides!

Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both!

🧥 Bring a Light Jacket

It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Underground Labyrinth

Vast Underground Labyrinth

Main Catacombs

Wander through extensive underground passages and burial chambers, a fascinating glimpse into early Christian history.

Across the Street Discovery

Across the Street Discovery

Opposite side of the street

Don't forget to explore the equally impressive catacombs on the other side of the road – your ticket includes access to both!

Historical Information Displays

Historical Information Displays

Throughout the site

Informative signs detail the history and significance of each section, bringing Malta's ancient heritage to life.

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Planning Your Visit

Don't Miss the Other Side!

The catacombs are split by a street. Ensure you explore both sections to fully appreciate the scale of this ancient burial site. Your ticket covers both sides, so don't skip out on half the experience!

Beat the Heat Underground

These ancient underground chambers offer a cool escape from Malta's summer sun. Bring a light jacket, as the temperature can be surprisingly chilly even on the hottest days. It's a great way to spend a few hours.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Escape the heat underground
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more history
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Malta tour advice

🎯 Explore Both Sides!

Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both! Reddit

🧥 Bring a Light Jacket

It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat. Reddit

reddit.com

Spent the day visiting the heritage sites in Rabat yesterday. St Pauls catacombs and the Roman villa. Great initiative by Heritage Malta and one that I recommend to others.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing, so wear comfy footwear. Reddit

⏳ Allow 2 Hours

Plenty of time to explore both sections and the museum without rushing. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Both Sides!

Remember to cross the street to see the other half of the catacombs. Your ticket covers both! Reddit

🧥 Bring a Light Jacket

It's surprisingly chilly underground, a welcome relief from the Maltese heat. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing, so wear comfy footwear. Reddit

⏳ Allow 2 Hours

Plenty of time to explore both sections and the museum without rushing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find St. Paul's Catacombs a fascinating and well-preserved glimpse into Malta's ancient history, with many praising the scale and fair ticket price. The underground coolness is a welcome escape from the heat, though some advise bringing a jacket. A common tip is to ensure you explore both sides of the catacombs, as they are divided by a street.

"The place is divided into two areas by the street, so be careful not to skip one side by mistake. It is a nice activity that feels like a small adventure. If you manage to visit all the chambers, it is a good small workout too (you will have to go up and down quite a few stairs). Random fact: There was a chicken outside of the gift shop. :D"

VALERIA PESSAGNO

"St. Paul’s Catacombs are a fascinating glimpse into early Christian history. Walking through the underground passages, you can almost feel the past come alive. The site is well-preserved, with clear information displays. It’s a unique experience that combines history, culture, and mystery definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in Malta’s rich and ancient heritage."

Adam Ice

"I'd highly recommend a visit here! Even as a local showing my visiting friends around, I really enjoyed exploring the catacombs. I was surprised by the scale of the underground burial grounds - it's more extensive than I expected. The ticket price is very fair considering the experience and the effort that's gone into maintaining the place. Don't forget to see the rest of the catacombs located across the street, with the same ticket. We spent two hours exploring the place, which was ideal to escape the summer heat!"

Nicholas Said

What People Like

Fascinating history
Cool underground escape
Fair ticket price

What People Dislike

Easy to miss one side

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Paul's Catacombs are located in Rabat, Malta. You can reach them by public bus from various points on the island; routes 201 and 202 are common options. Driving is also possible, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby Mdina, as they are close to each other. Reddit

Yes, public transport is a convenient way to reach the catacombs. Buses frequently stop near the site, making it accessible for those without a car. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Absolutely! Mdina and St. Paul's Catacombs are within walking distance of each other. It's a pleasant stroll, allowing you to see more of the surrounding area. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but they are generally open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's always best to check the official Heritage Malta website for the most current hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the catacombs, which is convenient if you are traveling by car. This makes it an easy stop on a day exploring the Rabat and Mdina area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The ticket price is considered very fair for the experience offered. It typically includes access to both sections of the catacombs and any associated museum exhibits. Booking in advance is usually not necessary, but checking the official website is recommended. Reddit

You generally don't need to buy tickets in advance, as walk-in entry is usually fine. However, for peak season or to guarantee entry, checking the Heritage Malta website for online booking options is a good idea. Reddit

Yes, your ticket is valid for both the main catacombs and the equally extensive section located across the street. Make sure not to miss either part! Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's advisable to check the official Heritage Malta website or inquire at the ticket office for any applicable concession rates. Reddit

Some tourist passes may include entry to St. Paul's Catacombs. It's worth checking the specific inclusions of any Malta Pass you plan to purchase to see if it covers this attraction. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The experience is like a small adventure, walking through ancient underground passages and chambers. It's a well-preserved site that offers a unique glimpse into early Christian history and burial practices. Reddit

Due to the underground nature, stairs, and uneven surfaces, it may not be fully accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues. It involves a lot of walking and going up and down stairs. Reddit

Most visitors spend around two hours exploring both sections of the catacombs and any accompanying museum displays. This allows for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed. Reddit

While the catacombs are underground and have a historical atmosphere, they are generally well-lit for visitor safety and exploration. Some find the experience awe-inspiring rather than spooky. Reddit

While there are information displays throughout the site, official guided tours may not always be available. However, the signage provides ample historical context for self-guided exploration. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the catacombs, but it's always good to check for any specific signage regarding restrictions. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the atmosphere or preservation. Reddit

The winding archways, ancient tombs, and the sheer scale of the underground chambers offer great photographic potential. Capturing the play of light and shadow can create dramatic shots. Reddit

The lighting can be atmospheric, with some areas being darker than others. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a night mode can help capture better images. Reddit

Drone photography is almost certainly prohibited within historical sites like the catacombs and surrounding areas due to safety and preservation concerns. Always adhere to local regulations. Reddit

A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive underground spaces. A camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a capable camera will serve you well. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Paul's Catacombs offer a unique and slightly adventurous outing for families. The underground labyrinth can feel like a real exploration, sparking children's imaginations. The cool temperatures are a welcome break from the heat, making it comfortable for younger visitors. Encourage kids to look for different types of tombs and imagine who might have been buried there. The informative signs, while detailed, can be simplified for younger attention spans. Remember to bring snacks and water, as options inside are limited, and ensure children wear comfortable shoes for navigating the uneven terrain and stairs. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by ancient history and archaeology, St. Paul's Catacombs are a treasure trove. You'll be walking through a significant example of early Christian burial practices in the Mediterranean. Pay close attention to the details on the sarcophagi and the architectural features carved into the rock. The site provides a tangible link to Malta's Roman and early Christian past, offering insights into the lives and beliefs of its inhabitants centuries ago. Consider researching the historical context beforehand to deepen your appreciation of the site's significance. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

St. Paul's Catacombs are an excellent choice for solo travelers and those on a budget. The ticket price is very reasonable, offering significant historical value for the cost. It's a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace without the need for a tour guide. The site is easily accessible by public transport, further reducing costs. Embrace the quiet atmosphere and enjoy a contemplative journey through history. Remember to bring a jacket and comfortable shoes for a pleasant exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Early Christian Malta

St. Paul's Catacombs in Rabat represent one of the most significant archaeological sites in Malta, offering a profound look into the island's early Christian history. These vast underground burial complexes date back to Roman times, primarily from the 3rd to the 8th centuries AD. The name 'St. Paul's Catacombs' is a bit of a misnomer, as they predate the arrival of St. Paul in Malta, but they are located in the vicinity of where he is believed to have shipwrecked. The complex is extensive, with numerous interconnected chambers, passages, and tombs carved directly into the soft limestone bedrock. Visitors can explore a portion of this labyrinth, marveling at the different types of burials, including loculi (rectangular niches) and larger agape tables used for funerary feasts. Reddit

The site is divided into two main sections by a modern street, a detail that many visitors overlook. It's crucial to ensure you visit both sides to fully grasp the scale and historical importance of the catacombs. The ticket price is remarkably affordable, especially considering the historical significance and the effort involved in maintaining such a unique site. The underground environment provides a natural respite from the Maltese heat, making it an ideal activity during warmer months. Reddit

Beyond the physical exploration, the catacombs offer a metaphysical journey through Malta's past. The quiet, cool chambers evoke a sense of history and reverence. Informative displays throughout the site provide context about the burial customs, the lives of the people interred here, and the evolution of early Christian practices on the island. It's a place that sparks curiosity and offers a tangible connection to the island's ancient heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Reddit

Practicalities for Your Underground Adventure

When planning your visit to St. Paul's Catacombs, a few practical tips can enhance your experience. Firstly, wear comfortable shoes. The uneven surfaces and numerous stairs require sturdy footwear, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking and climbing. Secondly, bring a light jacket or cardigan. Despite the Maltese sun, the underground environment maintains a consistent, cool temperature, which can be quite chilly, especially if you linger. Reddit

It's also important to be aware that the catacombs are divided into two distinct areas separated by a road. Ensure your ticket covers both sections and make a conscious effort to explore both sides to get the full picture. Many visitors have noted that it's easy to miss one side if you're not careful. Allow at least two hours for your visit to comfortably explore both parts and any accompanying museum exhibits without feeling rushed. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's wise to check for any specific signage. The atmospheric lighting can create dramatic shots, so a camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a night mode will be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of the historical site and other visitors while capturing your memories. Reddit

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