Misrah Ghar il-Kbir, Malta

National GeographicJul 25

Witches, vampires, ancient aliens—you'll find them all in Malta

Sleepy and conservative on the surface, the island nation of Malta is filled with archaeological mysteries that have seeped into local folklore — and can still be explored today.

Site of strange, deep grooves known as cart ruts.

18 things in this story

Blue GrottoAttractionWater is a startling sapphire hue; said to harbor mythical creatures.
Misrah Ghar il-KbirAttractionSite of strange, deep grooves known as cart ruts.
Il-BelliegħaSightA serpentine monster said to live in dark, dank places.
Il-ĦaresSightA mercurial, shapeshifting ghost.
Fata MorganaMarketMagic shop with a stall at a gothic music festival.
FilflaSightA strikingly flat-topped island beyond the Blue Grotto.
Gothic music festivalFestivalA forthcoming event where Rosalind Dougall will have a stall.
Ta’ Verna Folk BandPlace
Elsewhere
luzzijietSightMarsaxlokk, MaltaWooden fishing boats painted with eyes to ward off evil.
Calypso's CaveSightGozo, MaltaOdysseus was held captive here for seven years.
National Museum of ArchaeologyMuseumValletta, MaltaHeritage Malta seeks to provide its various audiences with an enhanced experience during visits to our various sites…
Ġebel ġol-BaħarAttractionSt Julian's, MaltaRuins of a supposed sunken temple off the coast.
Ħal Saflieni HypogeumSightValletta, MaltaA 5,000-year-old underground burial chamber.
Church of St MatthewSightQrendi, MaltaOld men sit in its shade watching the world go by.
Il-MaqlubaSightQrendi, MaltaA giant sinkhole where land was swallowed by God.
Wied SperanzaSightMosta, MaltaA cave where a girl hid from pirates, protected by a spider web.
ĠgantijaAttractionGozo, MaltaThe oldest of Malta's ancient temples, built in 3600 BCE.
Ta’ Cicivetta FarmPlaceRabat, MaltaAn agrotourism project offering countryside dinners.

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Misrah Ghar il-Kbir

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Witches, vampires, ancient aliens—you'll find them all in Malta