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Domus Romana

4.2
·2k reviews·Mdina, Malta

Discover Malta's Roman heritage at Domvs Romana, a 1st-century BCE villa with stunning mosaics and artifacts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Domus Romana - Image 1

Domus Romana

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Malta's Roman heritage at Domvs Romana, a 1st-century BCE villa with stunning mosaics and artifacts.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"One of the only fully remaining Roman villas on the island of Malta makes this sight worthwhile visiting!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💳 Card Payment Only

Remember to bring a card for payment, as cash is not accepted here. :credit_card:

Combine Tickets for Value

Get the Rabat ticket for access to Domvs Romana, National History Museum & Catacombs. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exquisite Mosaic Floors

Exquisite Mosaic Floors

Main Villa Area

Marvel at the intricate and vibrant mosaic floors, showcasing the artistry and wealth of Roman inhabitants.

Roman Statues and Artifacts

Roman Statues and Artifacts

Museum Displays

Discover a collection of well-preserved statues and everyday objects that tell stories of Roman life.

Open-Air Remains

Open-Air Remains

Exterior Courtyard

Admire the exposed foundations and architectural elements of the original Roman townhouse.

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Planning Your Visit

Uncover Malta's Roman Past

Step back in time at Domvs Romana, a remarkably preserved 1st-century BCE Roman villa. Explore stunning mosaics and artifacts that offer a glimpse into ancient Maltese life. It's a compact yet insightful experience, perfect for history buffs.

Combine Your Visit

Many visitors recommend combining your Domvs Romana ticket with the nearby National History Museum and St. Paul's Catacombs for a comprehensive historical day out in Rabat. This makes for a more value-packed experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for combining with other sites
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

no way this is free.. ⛳️ ‘Camerette di Sant’Ignazio’, hidden next to the ‘Chiesa del Gesù’ entrance might be my favorite secret in Rome. 🎨 In 1685 Jesuit artist Andrea Pozzo painted a mindblowing trompe-l’œil dome on a flat ceiling here before creating the grand illusion in the famous church. These rooms are the prototype. ✅ Entry is free; arrive 15:45 and the sacristan will swing the door open. 📌...
@tan_trionfi
84.1K likes • 1M views

💳 Card Payment Only

Remember to bring a card for payment, as cash is not accepted here. :credit_card:

Combine Tickets for Value

Get the Rabat ticket for access to Domvs Romana, National History Museum & Catacombs. :ticket:

When the church of San Nicola in Carcere was built in the 1100s, it incorporated three Ancient Roman temples from the 3rd century BC! These temples were: Temple of Spes, Temple of Juno, Temple of Janus. The church was built on top of the basements of these temples, which you can see outside the church, as well as inside. If you walk underground you will see the ancient Roman street level between t...
@livevirtualguide
65.3K likes • 842.1K views
DOMUS ROMANA 💥⚡️ Gràcies a @librosylatin pel material
instaclassiques
50 likes • 871 views

Short but Sweet Visit

It's a cozy museum, perfect for a brief but informative exploration. :stopwatch:

Admire Exterior Stones

Don't forget to step outside to appreciate the ancient stonework. :rock:

✨ T’agradaria endinsar-te en una autèntica domus romana? 🏛️ 📅 Aquest 11 de setembre aprofita la jornada de portes obertes i visita la Domus de Sant Honorat! 👨‍🏫 L’arqueòleg del Museu d’Història de Barcelona, Daniel Alcubierre, ens explica en què consisteix aquest fascinant espai arqueològic de 680 m². 🔎 Hi descobriràs: 🏺 Les restes d’una important domus de Barcino, un magnífic exemple de l’arq...
museuhistoriabarcelona
482 likes • 19.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💳 Card Payment Only

Remember to bring a card for payment, as cash is not accepted here. :credit_card:

Combine Tickets for Value

Get the Rabat ticket for access to Domvs Romana, National History Museum & Catacombs. :ticket:

Short but Sweet Visit

It's a cozy museum, perfect for a brief but informative exploration. :stopwatch:

Admire Exterior Stones

Don't forget to step outside to appreciate the ancient stonework. :rock:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Domvs Romana for its beautiful and well-preserved mosaics and Roman artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into Malta's ancient history. It's noted as a compact yet insightful site, with many recommending combining it with nearby attractions for a fuller historical experience.

"Domvs Romana is a small but very interesting place to visit. The mosaics are beautiful and well preserved, and there are many artifacts to see. It’s easy to walk around and doesn’t take long, but it shows a lot about Malta’s Roman history."

Adam Ice

"Being one of the only fully remaining roman villas on the island of Malta makes this sight worthwhile visiting! I hesitantly decided to buy a ticket and spend some of the little time I had in the area and was not disappointed. It’s filled with interesting and important history - a bonus that the amount of information is just enough. A good collection of different artifacts, collectibles and more. Definitely worth a visit and knowing more of this part of Malta almost makes you appreciate the island and country even more."

Anders Folke Westlund

"It's a very nice and cosy museum- new and neat but for a really short visit. It's nice to know that Malta has some Roman heritage as well and it's so well-preserved. The sculptures are nice and the tiled floor looks amazing but that's it. Don't forget to go outside to admire the stones. Payment by card only."

Monika Monique

What People Like

Beautifully preserved mosaics
Insightful Roman history
Well-preserved artifacts

What People Dislike

Short visit duration
Card payment only

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Domvs Romana is located in Rabat, Malta. You can reach it by public bus from various parts of the island. Many visitors find it convenient to combine with a visit to Mdina, which is adjacent to Rabat. Parking might be limited in the immediate vicinity, so public transport or walking from Mdina is often recommended. Reddit

Yes, Rabat is well-served by Malta's public bus network. Several bus routes stop within walking distance of Domvs Romana, making it accessible for travelers relying on public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Absolutely! Domvs Romana is situated just outside the walls of Mdina, making it a very easy and pleasant walk between the two historical sites. It's a common and recommended way to explore the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Heritage Malta website or local listings for the most current information before your visit. Generally, it's open during daytime hours.

Ticket prices are reasonable, and often a combined ticket is available for Domvs Romana, the National History Museum, and St. Paul's Catacombs, offering good value. Payment is typically by card only. Reddit

For Domvs Romana itself, advance booking is usually not necessary, especially during off-peak times. However, if you plan to visit during peak season or as part of a combined ticket package, checking for online booking options might be beneficial.

Yes, a popular option is the Rabat ticket which includes entry to Domvs Romana, the National History Museum, and St. Paul's Catacombs. This is highly recommended by visitors for a comprehensive historical experience. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Domvs Romana features a beautifully preserved mosaic floor, several Roman statues, and various artifacts unearthed from the site. You can also explore the open-air remains of the 1st-century BCE Roman townhouse. Reddit

A visit to Domvs Romana is typically quite short, often taking around 30-60 minutes. It's a compact site, perfect for a brief but insightful exploration of Roman heritage. Reddit

Yes, children can find the mosaics and artifacts interesting. The site is not overly large, making it manageable for families. Combining it with the catacombs might offer more variety for younger visitors.

Photography is generally permitted inside Domvs Romana for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if flash photography is allowed, as it can sometimes damage delicate artifacts.

Domvs Romana is one of the few fully remaining Roman villas on the island of Malta, dating back to the 1st century BCE. It provides valuable insights into the domestic life, architecture, and art of the Roman period in Malta. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Rabat and the nearby walled city of Mdina offer a good selection of cafes, restaurants, and eateries. You can find everything from casual snacks to more formal dining experiences. Reddit

No, food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum and historical site to help preserve the artifacts and mosaics. There are usually designated areas outside or nearby where you can enjoy refreshments.

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photo opportunities are the beautifully preserved mosaic floors, the Roman statues, and the exterior stonework of the ancient townhouse. Capture the intricate details and the sense of history. Reddit

While general photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate mosaics and artifacts. Always look for signs or ask a staff member if you are unsure.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Domvs Romana offers a manageable and engaging historical experience for families. The vibrant mosaics are often a hit with children, sparking their imagination about ancient life. The site is compact, making it easy for little legs to navigate without getting too tired. Reddit

Consider purchasing the combined Rabat ticket which includes the National History Museum and St. Paul's Catacombs. This provides a more varied day out, offering different historical perspectives that can keep children interested for longer. The catacombs, in particular, can be a fascinating adventure for curious minds.

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Domvs Romana is a must-visit. As one of Malta's few fully preserved Roman villas, it provides a direct connection to the island's Roman past. The quality of the mosaics and the intact architectural elements offer significant archaeological and historical value. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the open-air remains and the collection of statues and artifacts. Understanding its context within the broader history of Roman Malta, especially when combined with nearby sites, offers a deep dive into the island's layered heritage.

🚶 Day-Trippers from Valletta

If you're visiting Malta on a day trip and want to see more than just Valletta, Domvs Romana is an excellent addition. It's easily accessible by bus from the capital and can be visited in a short, focused excursion. Reddit

Pairing it with a walk through the ancient silent city of Mdina makes for a perfect half-day or full-day itinerary. The proximity and historical connection between these sites offer a rich taste of Malta's ancient history beyond the capital.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Roman Mosaics

The Domvs Romana is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved mosaic floors. These intricate artworks, dating back to the 1st century BCE, are not just decorative but also tell stories of the wealth, status, and daily life of the villa's inhabitants. The vibrant colors and detailed patterns showcase the skill of Roman artisans. Visitors often express awe at how these ancient floors have survived the centuries, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

Key motifs you might spot include geometric patterns, mythological scenes, and depictions of nature. The preservation of these mosaics is a testament to the quality of their construction and the protective environment within the villa. They are a highlight that truly brings the Roman era to life for modern visitors. Reddit

A Glimpse into Roman Life in Malta

As one of the few fully intact Roman villas discovered on Malta, the Domvs Romana offers invaluable insights into how the elite lived during the Roman period. The layout of the house, the artifacts found within, and the architectural remnants all contribute to a comprehensive understanding of domestic life, social structures, and economic activities of the time. Reddit

Beyond the mosaics and statues, the site includes the foundations and walls of the original townhouse, allowing visitors to visualize the scale and design of Roman residences. This historical context is crucial for appreciating Malta's rich and diverse past, which extends beyond its more famous medieval and Baroque periods. Reddit

Many visitors find that exploring Domvs Romana enhances their appreciation for Malta's broader historical narrative. It's a reminder that the island has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia, with Roman influence leaving a significant mark. Reddit

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