Description
The temple at Hagar Qim is probably the most well-known in Malta.
The site has seen some impressive discoveries over the years, including statues and carvings representing a fertility goddess, a rather well-proportioned woman known as the Venus of Malta. Hagar Qim dates back to around 3600 to 3200 BC.
The temple stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the tiny island of Filfla. Other ruins stand a few metres away from the main temple and the forecourt and facade follow the pattern typical of temples across Malta and Gozo. Particularly noteworthy are the larger stones at the corners, which are notched to take the second of the horizontal courses above.
Various items of interest have been unearthed at Hagar Qim, notably a decorated pillar altar, two table-altars and other artefacts which are on display at the National Museum of Archaeology on Republic Street in Valletta.
Hagar Qim is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
