Mnajdra

Mnajdra

Mnajdra is a complex site consisting of three temples overlooking an oval forecourt.

The first and oldest temple is a simple three-apsed building and dates to the Ġgantija phase (3600-3200 BC). Mnajdra has got small rubble walls. They are a modern reconstruction but the small uprights, with their pitted decoration  are original. The most impressive of the Mnajdra temples is the third, with its largely intact façade and bench constructed in the early Tarxien phase (3150 – 2500 BC).

Mnajdra is about 500 metres from the Ħaġar Qim megalithic complex.

What about Functions of this temple?

The lowest temple is astronomically aligned and probably was used as an astronomical observation. On the vernal and the autumnal equinox sunlight passes through the main doorway and lights up the major axis. On the solstices sunlight illuminates the edges of megaliths to the left and right of this doorway.

Archaeologists found there some ceremonial objects and tools, for example:  sacrificial flint knives and rope holes that were possibly used to constrain animals for sacrifice. These structures were not used as tombs since no human remains were found. The temples contain furniture such as stone benches and tables that give clues to their use. Probably temples were used for religious purposes, perhaps to heal illness or to promote fertility.

But if you are planning a visit to the Mnajdra, you should know that even the facade of this temple  is roped off, so you will not get a chance to sit on the ancient stone bench that runs along its base.