- Reading
- 3 min
- Access
- on foot
- Difficulty
- medium
Ghar Hasan is a cliff cave in southern Malta, legendarily the hideout of Saracen pirate Hasan. A rock window gives a dramatic view of the sea 80m below. Access requires a torch and caution.
The pirate's cave
Ghar Hasan is a cave set in the cliff face on Malta's southern coast, between Birzebbuga and Blue Grotto. Legend says a Saracen pirate named Hasan hid here in the 12th century after abducting a Maltese maiden. Knights discovered the hideout and rescued the hostage, while the pirate escaped by sea. The story is likely apocryphal, but the name has endured for centuries.
A window to the sea
The cave has several chambers connected by narrow passages. The most dramatic moment comes when, after a dark corridor, you emerge into a chamber with a natural rock window opening to the sea, approximately 80 metres above the water. The view is breathtaking: vertical cliffs, turquoise water, and nothing but horizon. It is one of Malta's lesser-known but most spectacular spots.
Archaeological traces
Archaeological surveys confirmed the cave was inhabited during the Bronze Age (c. 2000-1000 BC). Pottery and stone tools were found. During World War II, the cave served as an air-raid shelter for nearby residents.
Practical tip: Bring a torch; it is dark inside. The floor is slippery, so wear shoes with good grip. Drive there; park by the road. No entry fee. Avoid after rain (risk of slippery rocks).
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Tip
Bring a flashlight! Part of the cave is unlit. Access from Birzebbugia via the path south.
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