Ninu's Cave

A well that became a cave

In 1888, Joseph Rapa was digging a well under his house in Xaghra when he struck a large natural void. He had discovered a cave measuring approximately 20 by 8 metres, filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The cave was named Ninu's Cave after its previous house owner, Ninu.

Speleothem formations

You descend via a spiral staircase roughly 4 metres long, built into the original well shaft. At the bottom opens a spacious chamber. Many formations are dry and the same colour as the surrounding rock, but a few are semi-translucent, indicating the process of formation is still active. The cave is formed in upper coralline limestone.

Family tradition

For over 130 years, the cave has been run as a tourist attraction by the Rapa family and their descendants. Electric lighting allows comfortable year-round visits. A tour lasts about 15 minutes, guided by a family member with commentary.

Practical tip: Combine with Xerri's Grotto (5-minute walk) and the Ggantija temples (10-minute walk) for a 90-minute tour of underground and prehistoric Xaghra.