Malta, an archipelago nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a captivating blend of sun-drenched beaches, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Yet, for the intrepid Finnish adventurer seeking something truly extraordinary, the island nation holds a secret world beneath its sun-kissed surface: a labyrinthine network of underground wonders. From prehistoric temples carved into the rock to sprawling wartime shelters and ancient burial grounds, Malta's subterranean landscape is a testament to its enduring past, promising a journey unlike any other. This article will guide you through preparing for such an adventure, detailing essential travel considerations, highlighting the unmissable underground sites, offering tips for a truly memorable exploration, and encouraging you to embrace the freedom of a rental car to unlock these hidden gems.
Embarking on a journey to Malta's underground requires careful planning, especially for those travelling from Finland. Ensuring you have all the necessary documents, arranging your flights and accommodation, and packing appropriately will pave the way for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
As Finland is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, Finnish citizens do not require a visa to enter Malta for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period). However, a valid passport is essential. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area and that it was issued no more than ten years ago. While not strictly required for EU citizens, it is always wise to carry a copy of your travel insurance documents, as this provides a safety net for any unforeseen circumstances.
Direct flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Malta International Airport (MLA) in Valletta are available, with Norwegian Air International often offering direct routes. Other airlines such as Lufthansa, Air Baltic, Turkish Airlines, Finnair, Air France, KLM, Scandinavian Airlines, and Swiss also provide connecting flights. The average flight time for the most popular route from Helsinki to Valletta is approximately 7 hours and 54 minutes. It is advisable to book your flights well in advance, especially if travelling during peak seasons.
When it comes to accommodation, your choice will depend on your priorities. For those keen on immersing themselves in Malta's rich history and being close to many underground attractions, consider staying in Valletta, Birgu (Vittoriosa), or Senglea, collectively known as the Three Cities. These areas boast charming, historic hotels and guesthouses, many of which are within walking distance or a short drive from key sites. For example, The Vincent Boutique Suites in Valletta offers a unique stay in a 400-year-old building with a prime location. Birgu and Senglea offer a more tranquil, yet equally historic, atmosphere with stunning harbour views. While Sliema and St. Julian's are popular for their vibrant nightlife and beaches, they are a little further afield from many of the underground historical sites, although public transport or a rental car can easily bridge the gap.
Exploring Malta's subterranean world necessitates a specific packing strategy. While the island's climate is generally warm, underground sites can be considerably cooler and sometimes damp. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes with good grip are paramount; high heels, sandals, or flip-flops are often not permitted in sensitive historical sites like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum due to conservation efforts. Layers of clothing are recommended, allowing you to adapt to temperature changes as you move between the surface and underground. A light jacket or sweater is advisable. A small backpack for day trips is useful for carrying water, snacks, and any personal medications. For those wishing to capture the mysterious beauty of these sites (where photography is permitted), ensure your camera has extra batteries. A portable power bank for your devices is also a good idea. Given Malta's sunny climate, even when venturing underground, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential for your time above ground. Finally, a reusable water bottle is a must to stay hydrated throughout your explorations.
Malta's underground attractions can be broadly categorised into ancient archaeological marvels, strategic wartime shelters, and natural cave formations, each offering a unique glimpse into the island's diverse history and geology.
At the pinnacle of Malta's underground archaeological treasures is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an unparalleled example of prehistoric engineering. Discovered accidentally in 1902, this vast subterranean complex dates back to the Saflieni phase (3300 – 3000 BC) of Maltese prehistory. Carved entirely out of soft globigerina limestone, it served as both a sanctuary and a necropolis, with the estimated remains of over 7,000 individuals found within its three superimposed levels. The Hypogeum's intricate halls, chambers, and passages are interconnected by a labyrinthine series of steps and doorways, showcasing remarkable architectural features that mimic above-ground megalithic temples. Highlights include the "Oracle Room," renowned for its powerful acoustic resonance, and the "Holy of Holies," a chamber possibly oriented towards the winter solstice. Due to conservation efforts, access to the Hypogeum is strictly limited to 10 persons per tour, and tickets must be booked online well in advance, often months ahead. Photography and filming are prohibited to preserve the delicate prehistoric wall paintings.
Another significant underground site showcasing ancient burial practices are the St. Paul's Catacombs and St. Agatha's Crypt in Rabat. This extensive network of underground tunnels and chambers was in use until the 4th century, primarily as early Christian and Roman burial grounds. Exploring these labyrinthine passages offers a profound insight into ancient burial customs. The catacombs are believed to have harboured over 1,000 bodies within various burial chambers. Legend also suggests that St. Paul himself sought refuge in one of these caves during his stay in Malta. Before descending, a museum on-site provides valuable context on the discovery and historical significance of these tunnels.
Malta's strategic location in the Mediterranean made it a critical target during various conflicts, leading to the creation of an extensive network of underground shelters. These sites offer a poignant reminder of the islanders' resilience and ingenuity in times of war.
The Lascaris War Rooms, situated beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, are a monumental underground complex that served as the Combined Headquarters for Britain's three fighting services between 1940 and 1943. Encompassing an astonishing 35,000 square metres of tunnelling, this operational hub played a pivotal role in the defence of Malta during the devastating Siege of Malta in World War II. It housed the Royal Navy's Operations Room, the Royal Artillery Coastal Defence and Anti-aircraft Gun Operation Rooms, and the Royal Air Force's Fighter Operations' and Filter Rooms. A guided tour of these rooms provides a fascinating insight into the command and control operations during the war, including the planning of "Operation Husky," the Allied invasion of Sicily.
Similarly, the Malta at War Museum in Birgu (Vittoriosa) includes access to one of the largest underground wartime complexes in the Maltese islands. This shelter complex at Couvre Porte boasts over 1.5 kilometres of corridors and dozens of cubicles, providing a chilling glimpse into the daily lives of those who sought refuge from relentless bombings. You can see bomb-proof hoods designed to prevent falling debris from blocking entrances, anti-gas doors, and even a birth room carved into the rock, established after a 1942 government decree for all major public shelters. The museum itself further enhances the experience with wartime memorabilia and original footage. The Three Cities, including Senglea and Birgu, also feature numerous other secret passages, water storage cisterns, and early sanitation systems that have served various purposes throughout history, including discreet troop movements during sieges and protection during World War II.
Beyond human-made structures, Malta also boasts several impressive natural cave formations, offering a different kind of subterranean wonder.
Għar Dalam, often referred to as the "cave of darkness," is Malta's oldest archaeological site and a significant landmark. This prehistoric cave was found to contain the remains of the island's first settlers, dating back approximately 7,400 years, as well as the fossilised remains of dwarf elephants and hippopotami from half a million years ago. Visitors can explore the cave and its on-site museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of its geological and archaeological significance.
While often visited for its stunning azure waters by boat, the Blue Grotto also encompasses a series of natural sea caves. Located near Wied iż-Żurrieq, the main grotto and its surrounding caves offer a spectacular display of light and colour, particularly in the morning when the sun's rays illuminate the underwater flora, creating vibrant blue reflections. Although primarily a boat tour experience, it offers a unique interaction with Malta's natural underground formations where the sea meets the rock.
On Malta's sister island, Gozo, you can discover charming and unusual natural caves such as Ninu's Cave and Xerri's Grotto, both accessed through private family homes in Xagħra. These caves are celebrated for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Ninu's Cave was discovered by Joseph Rapa, and tours are often guided by a family member who shares insights into its geological features. Xerri's Grotto, discovered in 1923, was even used as an air raid shelter during WWII, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its natural beauty.
To make the most of your underground adventure in Malta, consider these practical tips:
Book in advance, especially for popular sites like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Limited daily admissions mean tickets sell out quickly. Online booking through Heritage Malta's website is the most reliable way to secure your visit.
Guided tours are highly recommended for many of the historical underground sites. The expertise of a guide can bring the history and significance of these spaces to life, providing context and stories that you might otherwise miss. Many tours offer audio guides in multiple languages, including English.
Be mindful of restrictions. Photography is often prohibited in sensitive archaeological sites to protect delicate structures and paintings. Adhere to all rules and regulations to help preserve these invaluable heritage sites for future generations.
Dress appropriately. As mentioned, comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential. The temperature underground can be cooler than outside, so layers are advisable.
Stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle, as exploring can be physically demanding, and some sites may not have immediate access to water.
Consider accessibility. Some underground sites may have narrow passages, uneven surfaces, or many steps. If you have mobility concerns, it is advisable to check the accessibility information for specific sites beforehand. For example, while the audio-visual show at the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is wheelchair accessible, the archaeological site itself is not.
Embrace the darkness and atmosphere. Many of these sites were designed for protection or burial, and their dimly lit, enclosed spaces contribute to their unique atmosphere. Allow yourself to be immersed in the historical context.
While Malta's public transport network is relatively efficient, especially in connecting major towns and cities, renting a car offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience for exploring the island's diverse underground wonders and beyond. Many of these fascinating sites are spread across the island, and relying solely on buses might limit your itinerary or make it more time-consuming.
With a rental car, Finnish adventurers can set their own pace, deviate from popular tourist routes, and discover hidden gems that are less accessible by public transport. Imagine the freedom to explore the rural areas of Gozo at your leisure, or to visit multiple catacombs and war shelters in one day without being tied to bus schedules. You can easily drive between Valletta, Rabat, Paola, and the Three Cities, allowing for a comprehensive underground exploration.
When renting a car in Malta, remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, a key difference for many Finnish drivers. Speed limits are typically 40 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on open roads unless otherwise indicated. You must be at least 21 years old and have held your license for at least two years. An EU driving licence is sufficient; an International Driving Permit is not required for Finnish citizens. It is highly recommended to take out comprehensive insurance. While car park attendants may be present in public car parks, their services are free, and tipping is optional. Navigating Malta's roads is generally straightforward, with short distances and well-maintained networks, and all road signs are in English.
Renting a car truly transforms your Maltese adventure, allowing you to seamlessly connect historical periods and geographical locations, from the ancient depths of the Hypogeum to the wartime tunnels of Valletta and the natural beauty of Gozo's caves. Embrace the open road and uncover every secret Malta holds beneath its sun-kissed façade. Your underground odyssey awaits—rent a car on Final Rentals today.
