HYPOGEUM PAOLA
The Hypogeum was first opened to the public in 1908, shortly before Sir Temi Zammit finished his detailed excavations. Even in the early 1900s, when prehistory was a new field of interest, Sir Temi recognised the fact that the Hypogeum was destined to become a major attraction. A permanent entrance was made by cutting a shaft into the middle level of the site.
This shaft was to act as the entrance to the Hypogeum for the next 90 years until a major conservation project was launched in the early 1990s. The presence of visitors over the decades and the seepage of water from the streets above had contributed to the gradual decay of this fragile site.
By 1992 it had become apparent that the Hypogeum would have to be temporarily closed to visitors if it were to have any chance of survival. As is so often the case with rare archaeological sites, the Hypogeum was a victim of its uniqueness and of man's inherent curiosity about the past.
To find out how to repair the damage sustained from visitors, algae, and humidity, Malta's Museums Department, with the assistance of UNESCO and many others, undertook many years of detailed research.
The only way to address conservation needs while still keeping the site open to visitors was to create a unique micro-climate above the underground chambers. In 1996, sophisticated controls were installed to regulate air temperature and humidity. This is the first time in Malta that a prehistoric monument has been so sensitively monitored.
Thanks to the kind cooperation of local residents, government departments and international experts, the Hypogeum has now been reopened to the public after several intensive and challenging years of conservation work. Today, it represents one of the most fascinating sites and museums in the Mediterranean.
The Hypogeum has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hypogeum is a labyrinthine complex of man-made chambers hewn out of the limestone extending some 11 metres below ground. It appears to have been used both as a burial site and as a temple. Neolithic man carved out the Hypogeum using only antlers and stone picks as tools, and in semi-darkness. The Hypogeum is made up of three superimposed levels. The upper level resembles the earlier rock-cut tombs found elsewhere on the Islands. The middle level, hewn out during the temple period (3800 - 2500 B.C.) is made up of numerous chambers. Many statuettes, amulets, figurines and vases were recovered here. The most famous figurine is that of the so-called Sleeping Lady, a reclining figurine, perhaps meant as a representation of eternal sleep. It is on display at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. From October 1st till June 15th, visits start at 8.45am and every hour till 11.45am and at 1.45pm, 2.45pm and 3.45pm. From June 16th till September 30th, visits start at 8.15am and every hour till 12(noon). Tickets must be purchased from the site and may be purchased up to 15 days in advance.