St Paul’s Catacombs is part of a large cemetery once located outside the walls of the ancient city of Melit. Roman law prohibited burial within the city, so the catacombs of St. Paul are located on the outskirts of this old Roman city. Currently, modern Mdina and Rabat are built on top of Melita. The catacombs of St. Agatha, San Catalda, St. Augustine, etc. are also located on this territory. During the archaeological excavations, was discovered an extensive system of underground galleries and tombs dating from the third to eighth centuries AD.
The catacombs of St. Paul occupy approximately 2000 square meters, these are one of the largest catacombs on the Malta island.
Catacombs were used until the seventh - eighth century AD. Some of the catacombs were reused during the re-Christianization of the island (around the 13th century).
This catacomb complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ticket prices
Adults 18-59 years |
Young people / students / seniors / disabled/ beneficiaries | Children 6-11 years |
---|---|---|
5.00 euro | 3.50 euro | 2.50 euro |
Working hours
- June - October 09.00 - 18.00 (last entrance at 17.30)
- November - May 09.00 - 17.00 (last entrance at 16.30)
Closed December 24, 25 and 31, January 1, Good Friday
How to get to St. Paul catacombs
Exact address: St. Agatha Street, Rabat RBT 2013
Nearest public transport stops:
- Barka - buses 51 (Valletta - Mtarfa) and 56 (Valletta - Dingli).
- Inguanez - buses 51 (Valletta - Mtarfa) and 56 (Valletta - Dingli).
- Rebha - Bus 50 (Valletta - Rabat).
You can also get to Mdina and take a walk (less than 1 km).
The catacombs are divided into 2 parts - the complex with the main entrance and - the second part across the road.
Complex map:
If you are planning to visit the catacombs, be prepared for the fact that there will be a lot of stairs. Each catacomb has its own separate entrance. There is an information board in front of each catacomb with information about number of steps, height, a small map and other useful information: