Discover Malta’s Ancient Past at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.

Discovering Malta’s Past: A Tour of Valletta’s National Museum of Archaeology

Malta is a small island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its size, Malta boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years. One of the best places to learn about this history is the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. This museum is dedicated to showcasing Malta’s archaeological past and prehistoric artifacts.

The National Museum of Archaeology is located in the heart of Valletta, Malta’s capital city. The museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building that was once the residence of the Knights of St. John. The building itself is a work of art, with its ornate façade and grand entrance hall.

As visitors enter the museum, they are transported back in time to Malta’s prehistoric past. The museum’s exhibits are arranged chronologically, starting with the Neolithic period and ending with the Phoenician period. Each exhibit is carefully curated to give visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of Malta’s ancient inhabitants.

The Neolithic period is the earliest period represented in the museum’s exhibits. This period dates back to around 5000 BC and is characterized by the construction of megalithic temples and tombs. The museum’s collection includes a number of artifacts from this period, including pottery, tools, and figurines.

Moving on from the Neolithic period, the museum’s exhibits showcase the Bronze Age. This period saw the arrival of new cultures in Malta, including the Phoenicians and the Greeks. The museum’s collection includes a number of artifacts from this period, including jewelry, weapons, and pottery.

The next period represented in the museum’s exhibits is the Iron Age. This period saw the arrival of the Phoenicians in Malta, who established trade routes and settlements on the island. The museum’s collection includes a number of artifacts from this period, including coins, jewelry, and pottery.

The final period represented in the museum’s exhibits is the Phoenician period. This period saw the establishment of the city of Carthage in North Africa, which became a major center of trade and commerce. The museum’s collection includes a number of artifacts from this period, including pottery, jewelry, and coins.

One of the most impressive exhibits in the museum is the collection of prehistoric figurines. These figurines were created during the Neolithic period and are some of the earliest examples of art in Malta. The figurines are made from a variety of materials, including clay and limestone, and depict a variety of human and animal forms.

Another highlight of the museum is the collection of Phoenician artifacts. These artifacts were discovered during excavations in Malta and are a testament to the island’s strategic importance as a trading hub in the Mediterranean. The collection includes a number of coins, jewelry, and pottery, as well as a reconstructed Phoenician ship.

Throughout the museum, visitors can also see a number of reconstructions of ancient Maltese homes and temples. These reconstructions give visitors a sense of what life was like in Malta during different periods of the island’s history.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the National Museum of Archaeology also hosts a number of temporary exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits focus on different aspects of Malta’s history and culture, and provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage.

Overall, the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Malta’s history and culture. The museum’s exhibits are carefully curated and provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of Malta’s archaeological past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply interested in learning more about Malta, the National Museum of Archaeology is well worth a visit.