40 pts3 min read🚶 on foot🟢 easy
Ninu's Cave in Xaghra was discovered in 1888 by Joseph Rapa while digging a well. A 4-metre spiral staircase leads to a 20x8 m chamber with stalactites.
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.
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Who discovered Ninu's Cave?
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Tip
Visit both caves — they're 200m apart. Different formations, equally fascinating.
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