Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (UNESCO)
Historic site
The Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni is a vast Neolithic underground sanctuary and burial site in Paola, dating from around 3300 to 3000 BC. Carved from solid limestone over three levels descending 10.6 metres below ground, it functioned as both a place of worship and a necropolis. Archaeological excavations revealed the remains of more than 7,000 individuals. UNESCO inscribed it as a World Heritage Site in 1980, recognising it as among the best preserved examples of prehistoric temple culture in the world.
