Ggantija Temples

Ġgantija stands on the Xagħra plateau on Gozo and dates from around 3600 to 3200 BC, which puts it among the oldest freestanding stone structures in the world. Two temples share a single facade and boundary wall, built of coralline limestone blocks some of which exceed five metres and fifty tonnes, and Maltese tradition explained them by saying a giantess built them, which is where the name comes from. A visitor centre covers the wider prehistory.

What you actually see

• The scale of the blocks - coralline limestone slabs over five metres and up to fifty tonnes.
• The shared facade - two temples behind a single boundary wall and forecourt.
• The date - construction from around 3600 BC, among the oldest anywhere.
• The visitor centre - finds and interpretation covering Gozo's prehistory.

When to go

March to May and September to November are the most comfortable. Summer heat on the plateau is severe. Mornings are quietest before the tour groups arrive.

Honest expectations

The interior is fenced and visitors follow a walkway rather than entering the chambers. Summer crowds from cruise excursions fill the site. It is a short visit unless the museum is taken slowly.

Nearby

Ta' Kola Windmill is beside it, and Xaghra village is around it.