Xemxija Heritage Trail, Heritage trail in St Paul's Bay, Malta
The Xemxija Heritage Trail is a walking route through Malta's northern region near St Paul's Bay that connects multiple archaeological sites and natural rock formations. The path winds over rocky terrain with steep limestone cliffs and follows routes carved or worn into the landscape over time.
The trail partly follows a Roman road over 2000 years old that carried pilgrims and travelers through the region. This ancient route was later used by monks who walked to nearby religious sites.
The trail passes through areas where shepherds and farmers moved their herds and worked the land for generations, leaving visible marks on the limestone. These worn pathways and carved marks in stone reveal how people shaped the landscape through their daily work.
The terrain is uneven with many rocks and requires sturdy footwear and plenty of water to bring along. The route offers little shade, so sun protection is important and walking in early morning or late afternoon is advisable.
Along the path are carved niches in the rocks that once served as beehives, with ancient beekeepers keeping insects in specially designed cavities within the limestone. These distinctive features show an early form of beekeeping adapted to the local environment.
Location: Malta
GPS coordinates: 35.94954,14.38062
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:01
Malta contains numerous historical sites and natural landscapes away from the main tourist areas. The islands hold prehistoric temple complexes such as Skorba and Ta' Ħaġrat near Mġarr, Roman remains including the Roman Villa at Żejtun and ancient bath sites, and Ghar Dalam, a cave with Ice Age fossil deposits. The geological diversity appears at locations like Il-Maqluba, a natural sinkhole crater, and the Blue Grotto near Żurrieq, while coastal fortifications such as Mistra Battery and the Red Tower document the island's defensive heritage. Religious sites mark the rural areas, including the Chapel of Santa Marija Tal-Virtu in Rabat and the chapels of Qrendi. The Buskett Gardens and San Anton Gardens provide green spaces with historical significance, while Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park protects coastal habitats. Archaeological complexes like Tas-Silġ show layers of Phoenician, Roman and Byzantine settlement. The Victoria Lines near Rabat, an 18th-century defensive wall, and Fort Binġemma demonstrate military architecture from different periods. Gozo adds locations such as Mgarr ix-Xini, a sheltered inlet, and Il-Qolla l-Bajda Battery.
Skorba Temples
3.2 km
Devil's Farmhouse
2.8 km
Fort Campbell
1.8 km
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa
2.1 km
Għajn Ħadid Tower
2.1 km
St. Paul's Bay Tower
2 km
Castello Dei Baroni
1.7 km
Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, Mellieħa
2.2 km
Sirens Stadium
3.1 km
Mistra Battery
1.6 km
Arrias Battery
315 m
Westreme Battery
2.9 km
Buġibba Battery
2.8 km
Parish Church of St Joseph, Manikata
2.6 km
Mistra Gate
451 m
St. Paul's Shipwreck Church
2.4 km
Palazzo Pescatore
1.6 km
Wardija Battery
1.9 km
Simar Nature Reserve
466 m
Dellia Battery
669 m
Ta' Tabibu farmhouse
1 km
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, St. Paul's Bay
1.3 km
Chapel of St. Simon, Wardija
2 km
Chapel of Our Lady of Graces Tal-Abbandunati, Wardija
1.3 km
Skorba Torso figurine
3.2 km
Xemxija Tombs
107 m
Red skorba phase lower female part figurine
3.2 km
Windmill near Salib tal-Pellegrini
1.6 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes