Catacombs of St Paul

The Catacombs of St. Paul, used as burial grounds during the Punic, Roman and Byzantine eras, constitute the oldest and most extensive archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta. Their link with St. Paul’s is based on the myth that this catacomb complex was once associated with St. Paul’s grotto. Although this association is mythological, recent research reveals that both sites were part of a much larger cemetery located outside the ancient city of Melite. The hypogeums date from at least the 3rd or 4th century BC. This complex of catacombs, typical of interconnected Roman underground cemeteries, was in use until the 7th or even 8th century AD. It is located in the region of Ħal Bajjada, nicknamed Tad-Dlam, and houses over 30 hypogeums. The main complex of the St Paul complex comprises a network of passages and tombs that occupy more than 2,000 m2. The entrance to this main complex gives access to two spacious halls, decorated with pillars similar to Doric columns and painted plasterwork, most of which has now disappeared. These rooms also house two circular tables on a low platform, reminiscent of the triclinium in Roman houses. Carved out of the rock, these tables were probably intended for commemorative meals during the annual feast of the dead. Part of the catacombs was reused during the re-Christianization of the island, around the 13th century, when an open space was transformed into a Christian sanctuary, enriched with wall paintings.