Ġgantija, Archaeological site in Xagħra, Malta.
Description
Ġgantija is an archaeological complex on the island of Gozo consisting of two side-by-side temples made from massive limestone blocks. The structures show curved apses arranged around central courtyards and an outer wall that encloses both temples.
History
The temples were erected around 3600 BC, making them among the oldest freestanding structures in the world. They remained in use until about 2500 BC before being abandoned and later disappearing under soil and vegetation.
Culture
The name means "tower of the giants" in Maltese, reflecting local legends that attributed the construction to a race of giant beings. Visitors today see the remains of altars where offerings were placed and small carved figures that suggest worship centered on fertility and abundance.
Practical
The site is mostly paved and accessible for wheelchair users, with ramps and wide pathways between the temples. A visit typically takes about an hour and is more comfortable in early morning or late afternoon when fewer visitors are present.
Did you know?
The builders moved stones weighing up to 50 tons without wheels or metal tools, likely by rolling them on balls of hard stone. Some blocks show small holes that may have been used to insert levers for precise positioning.
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