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Archaeology of Malta - Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
 The Hypogeum has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hypogeum is a labyrinthine complex of man-made chambers hewn out of the limestone extending some 11 metres below ground. It appears to have been used both as a burial site and as a temple. Neolithic man carved out the Hypogeum using only antlers and stone picks as tools, and in semi darkness. The Hypogeum is made up of three superimposed levels. The upper level resembles the earlier rock-cut tombs found elsewhere on the Islands. The middle level, hewn out during the temple period (3800 - 2500 B.C.) is made up of numerous chambers. Many statuettes, amulets, figurines and vases were recovered here. The most famous figurine is that of the so-called Sleeping Lady, a reclining figurine, perhaps meant as a representation of eternal sleep. It is on display at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. From Monday to Sunday seven tours are conducted, starting on the hour from 9.00 till 16.00 (last tour). There is no tour at 12.00. To plan your sightseeing, we advise that you book ahead as tours are often full up to weeks in advance. Tickets for the Hypogeum are available in person from the Hypogeum visitor centre in Paola and from the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. 
The only way to address conservation needs while still keeping the site open to visitors was to create a unique micro-climate above the underground chambers. In 1996, sophisticated controls were installed to regulate air temperature and humidity while allowing only small groups of ten people at a time for only limited periods per day. Entrance to the tour that follows (lower half). Note that the entire area above the site is glass enclosed and suspended so as to avoid any pressure on the site. 
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