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St Agatha’s Catacombs

  • Address
    Triq Sant Agata, Hal-Bajjada, Ir-Rabat, Malta
  • Web
    http://stagathamalta.com/complex.html
  • Visiting Hours
    Monday to Saturday from 13:00 to 16:30, Sunday closed
  • What to see
    Catacombs of the Roman era and frescoes

 

The Catacombs of St. Agatha in Malta, excavated in the globigera limestone, are subway cemeteries dating back to the 2nd and 3rd century AD. Spread over 4100 square meters, they house tombs decorated with reliefs and frescoes, being used to bury pagans, Jews and Christians. Several types of tombs stand out, such as the “agape tables” and the “canopied table tombs”, the latter being a distinctive feature. In addition, a chamber in the catacombs, known as the Sancta Sanctorum, features 3rd century frescoes, including a cross and Christian symbols. The site is crucial on the Maltese Way, connects to the devotion to St. James in Spain and represents an important starting point for pilgrims.

The Catacombs of St. Agatha, located in Rabat, Malta, offer a rich archaeological heritage ranging from the Punic to the early Christian period. With varied tombs, Latin and Greek inscriptions, and wall paintings, these catacombs have been a burial place for pagans, Jews and Christians for centuries. In addition to their historical value, the catacombs serve as a starting point for the Maltese Way, drawing a parallel to devotion to St. James in Spain. Their connection to the Order of St. John highlights the importance of the site as a pilgrimage center and reflects the Christian tradition on the island.

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