Il-Maqluba, Qrendi
300m away from BBQ outdoor restaurant, 'Bufni Gardens'

last updated: 19/04/2024

’Il-Maqluba’ is a sinkhole that appeared back in 1343 during a violent storm (possibly an earthquake), situated in the village of Qrendi. The sinkhole is composed of blue clay, globigerina limestone and dominant trees. One particular species lying there is the sandarac gum tree ‘Siġra Tal-Għargħar’ which naturally occures in North Africa and Southern Spain; whilst in Malta we only have in this sinkhole and some areas in the north. The sinkhole is also a nesting site for the national bird of Malta. Moreover there is a small chapel of San Mattew on the edge of the sinkhole, which has been existing probably around the 11th century.

However, it is forbidden to venture down to the bottom-most level of the sinkhole, because its protected. But one can admire the sinkhole from a midway viewing and take photos. One big legend about the sinkhole says that the place was inhabited by people who lived such dissolute lives that a neighbour warned them against their sinful ways, without them taking notice. God therefore wished to punish the sinners by engulfing the hamlet that there was, saving only the wise people there. The angels then threw a fragment into the sea, creating the isle of Filfla. It is believed that a nun was saved while praying in the small chapel during the occurence.

After visiting the sinkhole, one must pay a visit to the beautiful ‘Blue Grotto’, which is a 20 minute walk/three minutes by car. The ‘Blue Grotto’ is a complex of seven sea caves in front of the little islet of Filfa, were you can swim and dive in the very clear, clean and deep waters. There are also boat trips to the caves, which is believed to be the best way to experience the beauty of the area. The complex comprises a massive and very impressive arch, which was resulted by the harsh waves along the years.