If you want to visit a typical Maltese village, look no further than gorgeous “L-Imgarr”- a village known for its history, culture, and more importantly, its food. Mgarr is found within the Northern Regions of Malta, particularly closest to Mosta and adjacent to Mellieha. Known for its fertile farmland and vineyards, Mgarr is a predominantly agricultural area, home to many of the island’s farmers. Its peaceful surroundings warrant a day’s visit- here is Shortlet Malta’s guide to the lovely village of Mgarr!

1.Ta’ Hagrat Temples: Mgarr has two important prehistoric sites both of which are still in great condition and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Ta’ Hagrat is a megalithic temple found just outside of Mgarr’s town centre, which happens to be divided in two- one larger megalithic temple belonging to the Ggantija phase (3600-3200 BCE) and a smaller temple dating back to the Saflieni phase (3300-3000 BCE). The site was excavated by Malta’s very own Sir Temi Zammit between 1923 and 1926, and plenty of antique pottery was found on site.

2. Skorba Temples: Mgarr’s second prehistoric site and megalithic temple is found a mere kilometer outside the Ta’ Hagrat Temple area. The Skorba Temples are not as well preserved as Ta’ Hagrat Temples are, however what is fascinating about this temple is not what the eye beholds, but rather the discoveries made due to it. The Skorba area seems to have been inhabited way back in the very early in the Neolithic period, and the deposits found at its base contained matrial which dated back to the first known human occupation of Malta, circa 4850 BC!

3. Neighbouring Beaches: When visiting Mgarr, you are never too far from the beach: Gnejna Bay, Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha are only a 10 minute drive from the village centre. All three beaches are predominantly sandy beaches, with convenient rocky areas. Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha sit adjacent to each other; whilst Ghajn Tuffieha promotes quiet, nature-loving surroundings, Golden Bay boasts a “party-like” environment, with volleyball tournaments being held, bars, restaurants, barbecues and even beach parties. Gnejna Bay, on the other hand, is a small, golden sanded beach, great for family trips. Take your pick- they are all beautiful in their own unique ways!

4. Nature Trails and Hiking Opportunities: Feeling active and adventurous? Mgarr is a mecca for hikers and nature-lovers alike. For the more adventurous souls, Fomm ir-Rih is the ideal place for trekking, snorkelling and diving. Boasting incredulous views and a secluded beach, it is perfect for those who enjoy a struggle to then relax all day long. For those of us who prefer more relaxing walks, Mgarr is only a short drive away from scenic areas such as Victoria Lines and Bingemma- unobstructed countryside views await you!

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5. Enjoy a “Fenkata”: For those lucky few who can get over the fact that rabbit are super duper cute and the guilt of eating them, a fenkata is just the thing you need to feel like a proper Malteser. Head over to il-Barri, a restaurant right next to the Mgarr Parish Church (hard to miss!) and enjoy a bountiful meal of anything that is typically Maltese: dips and “galletti” (crackers) as an appetizer, a bowl of spaghetti with rabbit sauce as a starter, and a nice chunk of rabbit for your main. There is truly nothing like having to move the belt buckle a hole or two down after filling your belly with gorgeous Maltese food!

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Let us know what you think about our prized jewel, Mgarr, in the comments below!

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