St Paul’s Catacombs

Rabat, Northern Region, Malta

---

St. Paul's Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, are an extensive network of underground Roman burial chambers dating back to around the 3rd or 4th century BCE, used continuously until the 7th or 8th century AD.

These catacombs, covering over 2,000 square meters, are the largest ancient burial site in Malta and provide significant archaeological evidence of early Christianity on the island. The site includes more than 30 hypogea or tombs, many with Christian, Jewish, and Pagan symbols carved or painted on the walls, reflecting the diverse communities that used them.

Although the catacombs were abandoned in the 8th century, they were briefly reused in the 13th century during the re-Christianization of Malta, with parts converted into a Christian shrine adorned with murals. Discovered and excavated in 1894, the catacombs offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient burial customs and Malta's religious history, with ongoing preservation and visitor facilities managed by Heritage Malta.