St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat have become the first site in Malta to receive the European Heritage Label, recognising an ancient underground burial complex where Jewish, pagan and Christian communities left evidence of their shared history over more than a thousand years.This is very good news. For PaleoJudaica posts on the catacombs of Malta, start here and follow the links.The recognition, awarded earlier in 2026, places the catacombs among European landmarks selected for their contribution to the continent’s history and cultural identity. Heritage Malta celebrated the distinction in October with guided tours, Roman funeral re-enactments and educational activities, while announcing plans to improve the visitor experience.
Dating from at least the fourth or third century BC, the catacombs contain more than 30 underground burial areas spanning the Punic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Their unusual combination of religious traditions makes the complex one of the Mediterranean’s most significant early burial sites.
[...]
Incidentally, I was in Malta last summer and I have photos of the Jewish inscriptions in the Rabat catacombs.
And, yes, I also did locate that supposedly Iron Age, supposedly Jewish or Phoenician inscription at the Neolithic Ġgantija temple complex in Gozo. It really is there and it really is an obvious forgery. I have photos of it too.
I will share some photos of both sites with you when I get a chance. Maybe not soon. I am very busy and will be for some time.
Visit PaleoJudaica daily for the latest news on ancient Judaism and the biblical world.
