Prehistoric tombs, a Heritage Trail along a former Roman road and the photography hide at the Simar Nature Reserve give Xemxija something to offer travellers with different interests. When looking for a holiday apartment in Xemxija, you can first consider whether archaeological finds, historic routes or nature photography will shape your stay.

Tombs and archaeological layers of time

The seven prehistoric tombs date from the Temple period and later periods. Bronze Age pottery from the tombs also indicates that the site was used during the Bronze Age. The tombs and finds therefore offer two perspectives on time: the tombs are associated with the periods mentioned, while the pottery points to use during the Bronze Age. The site is on the top of a hill overlooking Xemxija Bay. Both their chronological context and their specific location contribute to an understanding of the tombs.

Another cultural heritage site is the Xemxija Aqueduct and Water Reservoir, which was added to the National Inventory of Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands in 2025. Alongside the prehistoric burial site, it is another named heritage site in the local landscape. Those choosing Xemxija for its cultural attractions will find a range of points of interest here, rather than a single historical focus.

Historic routes and pilgrimage history

The Xemxija Heritage Trail follows a former Roman road to Bajda Ridge. The Punic-Roman road has survived for a considerable length and is also known as the Pilgrims Way. Pilgrims used it on their way to the Our Lady’s sanctuary in Mellieħa. These details give the trail several historical points of reference: the surviving route, its destination at Bajda Ridge and its former use by pilgrims. The name Pilgrims Way recalls a significance beyond the route’s Roman history alone.

In Xemxija, a Roman road also leads to a Roman apiary. This adds another specific topic in the area’s history to the tombs and the Heritage Trail. Travellers interested in historic routes can therefore explore both the traditional pilgrims’ route and the connection between a Roman road and a named destination as part of their visit to Xemxija.

Nature watching and getting there

The Simar Nature Reserve has a photography hide that visitors can book by appointment. If you are planning nature photography, include the appointment booking in your preparations. This involves a different planning step from visiting the historic sites and routes, so you can make it a separate focus of your trip.

In a publication updated on 2 August 2022, Transport Malta listed Xemxija as an important stop on the North Route for excursion traffic. The date is relevant when planning a specific journey: check a current timetable before deciding on your connection.

Choosing accommodation to suit your interests

When searching for a holiday apartment in Xemxija, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay. Archaeology and the history of the routes are suited to visits with a historical focus; the photography hide adds the option of a bookable appointment to your plans. Checking the timetable for the published North Route is another separate consideration if you are thinking of using that connection.

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