Skorba Temples
A modest temple site whose excavation established the chronology of Maltese prehistory through radiocarbon dating.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
UNESCO World Heritage
Skorba is the least visually impressive of the six inscribed temples and the most important for what was learned there. David Trump excavated it in the 1960s and found occupation layers below the temple going back to the earliest farming on the islands, which allowed the first radiocarbon-based chronology for Maltese prehistory and pushed the dates back further than anyone had expected. Two temples stand on the site, along with the walls of earlier village huts.
What you actually see
- The village remains - walls of huts predating the temples on the same ground.
- The excavation sequence - the layers that produced the first radiocarbon chronology.
- The two temples - a three-apse and a four-apse structure side by side.
- The Red Skorba figurines - the phase named after the pottery and figures found here.
When to go
Year round; opening is limited and often by arrangement rather than daily. Mornings are the usual visiting slot. Combining it with Ta' Hagrat nearby makes the trip worthwhile.
Honest expectations
There is very little to look at: low walls and foundations without the standing megaliths of the other temples. Opening hours are restricted and should be confirmed before travelling. Interpretation on site is minimal.
Nearby
Ta' Hagrat is nearby, and Mgarr village is south.
What to pack for Skorba Temples
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.