Mnajdra Temples, Malta: Ticket prices, hours & visitor guide (2026)

Step back into the Neolithic age on Malta’s southern coast. This 2026 Mnajdra Temples visitor guide covers tickets, the solar alignment, and the walk to these ancient giants.

Standing at Mnajdra, with the endless Mediterranean stretching out before you, it is easy to see why prehistoric people chose this spot. It feels timeless. Unlike its neighbour Hagar Qim, which sits high on the ridge, Mnajdra is tucked into a hollow by the sea, feeling more secluded and intimate. The connection to the cosmos here is tangible — knowing that the stones were perfectly aligned to mark the seasons over 5,000 years ago makes the visit genuinely awe-inspiring.

Notable features, expectations & history

The Mnajdra complex lies about 500 metres downhill from Hagar Qim. It is famous for its astronomical alignment; during the equinoxes and solstices, sunlight illuminates specific parts of the temple interior with laser-like precision. Built between 3600 and 3200 BC, these structures are among the oldest free-standing buildings on Earth—predating the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge by centuries.

Quick overview

The site is open daily. One ticket covers entry to both Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, plus the Visitor Centre. The walk between the two temples takes about 10 minutes and offers little shade, so prepare accordingly.

How much do the Mnajdra Temples cost?

Entry is affordable and includes access to the entire Archaeological Park (Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and the museum).

Note: Heritage Malta occasionally offers open days or special guided sunrise tours during the solstices, which cost more and must be booked well in advance.

Is Mnajdra free to enter?

Standard entry is paid, but specific groups enter for free.

• Infants: Children aged 5 and under.
• Heritage Malta Members: Free with valid membership card.
• Heritage Malta Passport Holders: Free.

What time do the temples open?

The park is open seven days a week. Hours vary slightly by season, with longer days in summer (often until 18:00 or 19:00), but the core hours remain consistent.

• Daily: 09:00 – 17:00 (Winter hours usually apply until end of February).
• Closed: 24, 25, 31 December, 1 January, and Good Friday.
• Last Admission: Strictly 30 minutes before closing.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

For a standard visit, no booking is required. You can buy tickets at the Visitor Centre upon arrival. However, if you want to attend the special Solstice or Equinox sunrise events, you must book months in advance as tickets are extremely limited and sell out instantly.

History of the site

Mnajdra consists of three distinct temples built of coralline and globigerina limestone. The oldest structure dates back to the Ggantija phase (3600 BC). Unlike Hagar Qim, which has been affected by weathering, Mnajdra’s use of harder coralline limestone has kept it remarkably well-preserved. In 2008, massive protective tent shelters were installed over both sites to protect the soft stone from rain and sun damage.

Inside: What to see

• The South Temple: The most impressive structure, aligned so that the rising sun lights up the central axis during the equinoxes.
• Pitted Decoration: Look closely at the stones to see the intricate “pitted” holes drilled by stone tools millennia ago.
• The Oracle Hole: A small window in one of the chambers, possibly used by a priest or oracle to speak to people outside.
• The View: The backdrop of the islet of Filfla is stunning. The temple was likely placed here to overlook this sacred rock.

What’s included with your ticket?

• Entry to Hagar Qim Temples.
• Entry to Mnajdra Temples.
• Access to the Visitor Centre (4D film and exhibition).
• Use of the nature trail connecting the sites.

Things to do near Mnajdra

Blue Grotto (2 km, 5 min drive)

A series of sea caverns with brilliant blue waters. You can take a small boat trip from Wied iz-Żurrieq to see them up close.

Ghar Lapsi (4 km, 10 min drive)

A beautiful natural swimming hole popular with locals. The water is crystal clear and perfect for a cooling dip after the hot temple walk.

Dingli Cliffs (6 km, 12 min drive)

The highest point in Malta. The views of the sunset from here are unmatched.

Maqluba (3 km, 5 min drive)

A mysterious sinkhole in the village of Qrendi, linked to local legends of a village swallowed by the earth.

Practical tips

• Transport: Bus routes 74 (from Valletta) and 201 (from the airport) stop right outside the park.
• Sun Protection: There is zero shade on the 500m walk between the Visitor Centre and Mnajdra. Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen.
• Golf Buggy: An electric buggy is available to shuttle visitors between the temples for a small fee if you cannot manage the walk.
• Accessibility: While the Visitor Centre and Hagar Qim are accessible, Mnajdra is not fully accessible to wheelchairs due to the rough terrain and slope.

FAQs