Discover Malta's fascinating history with a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. This remarkable museum offers a journey through the island’s prehistoric and cultural heritage, showcasing artifacts that date back over 7,000 years. Housed within the Auberge de Provence, an impressive baroque building constructed in 1571, the museum blends historical grandeur with archaeological wonder. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museum provides a captivating insight into Malta’s ancient civilizations and their artistic, architectural, and cultural achievements.
Historical Significance of the Museum
The Auberge de Provence, originally built by the Order of St. John, serves as the perfect setting for this archaeological treasure trove. The building’s rich history adds another layer of intrigue, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Valletta. Inaugurated as the National Museum of Archaeology in 1958, it was established to preserve and showcase Malta’s prehistoric legacy. Over the decades, the museum has played a crucial role in educating both locals and tourists about Malta's ancient past.
History of the Auberge de Provence
The Auberge de Provence was constructed between 1571 and 1574 to house knights of the Order of St. John from the Provence region of France. Designed by renowned Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar, it is a fine example of baroque architecture, featuring elaborate facades, grand halls, and intricate stone carvings. The exterior’s ornate windows and cornices, combined with the interior’s high vaulted ceilings and richly decorated rooms, reflect classic baroque design elements. During the British colonial period, the building served as government offices before being transformed into a museum in the mid-20th century.
Nicolo Nasoni’s Ceiling Paintings
One of the museum’s standout features is the ceiling painting by Nicolo Nasoni, a prominent Italian artist known for his baroque style. The artwork depicts an allegorical scene of a female figure battling a monstrous creature, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Surrounding her are cherubic figures playing musical instruments, representing harmony and peace. This striking artwork enhances the cultural and artistic ambiance of the museum.
Sir Themistocles Zammit: Father of Maltese Archaeology
A pivotal figure in Maltese archaeology, Sir Themistocles Zammit was instrumental in uncovering many of Malta’s prehistoric treasures. Initially a doctor, Zammit’s interest in history led him to significant archaeological discoveries at sites like Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and the Tarxien Temples. His meticulous excavation of the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum revealed a wealth of artifacts, including the famous Sleeping Lady figurine. Beyond his excavations, Zammit served as the first director of the National Museum of Archaeology and was knighted by King George V for his contributions to public health and archaeology.
Museum Exhibits and Highlights
The museum’s collection spans several key phases of Malta’s prehistoric timeline, including the Għar Dalam, Skorba, Ta’ Ħaġrat, and Ġgantija phases. Each phase represents a critical period in the island’s development, from early human settlement to the construction of complex megalithic temples.
Għar Dalam Phase
Dating back to around 5000 BCE, the Għar Dalam phase represents the earliest evidence of human presence on Malta. Named after the Għar Dalam cave, this phase provides invaluable insights into prehistoric life.
Key artifacts from this phase include:
Obsidian Tools: These tools, imported from nearby Sicily, suggest early trade networks.
Pottery Sherds: Decorated with zigzag patterns, these fragments connect Malta to the Stentinello culture of southern Italy.
Animal Bones: Fossils of dwarf elephants and hippopotamuses illustrate the island’s unique ecological history.
Skorba Phase (c. 4400–4100 BCE)
The Skorba phase marks an essential evolution in Malta’s prehistoric society, characterized by the development of small village communities. The Skorba Temples, located in Żebbiegħ, provide archaeologists with valuable stratigraphic evidence charting the island’s Neolithic development.
Notable artifacts:
Red Skorba Pottery: Distinguished by its reddish-brown hue, this pottery reflects a leap in ceramic techniques.
Female Figurines: These statuettes symbolize fertility and highlight the role of women in early agricultural societies.
Grinding Stones: Used for processing grains, these stones indicate a transition from hunting and gathering to farming.
Ta’ Ħaġrat Phase (c. 3600 BCE)
The Ta’ Ħaġrat phase marks a period of architectural and cultural advancement. Located in Mġarr, the Ta’ Ħaġrat Temples are among the earliest examples of Malta’s megalithic architecture.
Key artifacts:
Decorated Pottery: Featuring intricate designs with animal motifs, these ceramics suggest religious or symbolic use.
Stone Tools: Flint and obsidian tools reflect the community’s resourcefulness and trade capabilities.
Removable-Head Figurines: These unique figurines may have been used in rituals involving interchangeable heads to represent various deities.
Ġgantija Phase (c. 3600–2500 BCE)
The Ġgantija phase represents the height of Malta’s temple-building culture. The Ġgantija Temples on Gozo, some of the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world, are a testament to the ingenuity of Malta’s prehistoric inhabitants.
Key sites and artifacts:
Ġgantija Temples: Known for their massive stone structures and ceremonial altars.
Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra: Notable for their astronomical alignments with solstices and equinoxes.
Tarxien Temples: Famous for their detailed carvings, animal reliefs, and evidence of ritual sacrifices.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Discovered in 1902, the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is an underground burial site dating back to 4000 BCE. It consists of three levels of rock-cut chambers and is believed to have held the remains of over 7,000 individuals. Notable features include the Oracle Room, known for its acoustic properties, and intricate red ochre wall decorations. Due to its delicate nature, access to the Hypogeum is strictly regulated, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Visitor Information
Location: Auberge de Provence, Republic Street, Valletta
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Tickets: Available online or at the entrance. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a stroll around Valletta’s historic streets, or explore nearby sites such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Conclusion : Tour de Malte : National Museum of Archaeology
The National Museum of Archaeology in Malta is more than just a collection of artifacts—it’s a gateway to understanding the island’s ancient past. From the earliest human settlements to the construction of awe-inspiring temples, the museum offers a comprehensive look at Malta’s prehistoric legacy. By visiting this remarkable institution, you’ll not only learn about Malta’s history but also gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of its early inhabitants.