Salina Salt Pans

The Salina Salt Pans, located near St. Paul's Bay, are among the oldest and most significant salt production sites in Malta. Their origins likely date back to the Roman era, but they were extensively developed and expanded in the 16th century under the rule of the Knights of St. John. The facility consists of a complex network of pans carved into the coastal limestone, where seawater is evaporated by the sun to produce salt. Geographically, the salt pans are situated in a low-lying marshy area that is now protected as the Salini National Park. For centuries, salt production was a strategically vital industry for Malta, as salt was essential for food preservation and trade. Beyond their industrial heritage, the pans represent a critical wetland ecosystem for migratory birds and specialized flora adapted to high salinity. In recent years, the site has undergone a major restoration project, including the rehabilitation of historic timber salt huts that now function as an interpretation center. The Salina Salt Pans are a fascinating example of traditional human interaction with the Mediterranean environment.

Nearby cities

Għargħur

Għargħur is one of Malta's smallest and oldest villages, situated on a hilltop with views of the coast.

Swieqi

Swieqi is a relatively new town and a quiet residential area, located close to the busy hubs of St.

Mellieħa

Mellieħa is a large northern village, renowned for Malta's largest sandy beach, Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay).

Balzan

Balzan is a charming and picturesque village, one of the 'Three Villages', known for its quiet alleys and elegant townhouses.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

A pristine sandy beach reached via a long flight of stairs, known for its rugged and natural beauty.

Gnejna Bay

A quieter, more local bay with a sandy beach, flat rocks, and charming traditional boathouses.

Żebbuġ, Malta

Żebbuġ, also known as Città Rohan, is one of the oldest towns in Malta, known for its grand parish church and its feasts.

Pietà

Pietà is a small town on the outskirts of Valletta, known for its former Royal Navy hospital and its marina.

Cirkewwa

The main ferry terminal in northern Malta for Gozo and Comino, also serving as a world-class diving destination.

Marsa

Situated at the inner end of the Grand Harbour, Marsa is a key industrial hub, featuring a power station and a horse racing track.

Dingli

Dingli is located at Malta's highest point and is famous for its dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

History & landmarks

Mtarfa Clock Tower

A prominent clock tower from the British colonial era.

Limestone Heritage

A park celebrating the history of stone masonry in Malta.

Nature

Victoria Lines Fault

A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.

Il-Qlajja Hill

A prominent hilltop near Mdina.

Ta' l-Agħara Hill

A flat hilltop near Ħal Qormi.

Bahrija Plateau

A rural plateau with beautiful views and walking trails.

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Mtaħleb Valley

A fertile valley that slopes down to the sea, home to one of Malta's few streams.

Qammieh Point

A rocky headland with great views towards Ghadira Bay and Gozo.

More places

Palazzo Parisio

A grand aristocratic palace with beautiful landscaped gardens.

Kennedy Grove

A park area with a small playground, ideal for a picnic.

Victoria Lines

A defensive wall across the width of Malta.

St. Paul's Islands

Two small islands that are a haven for wildlife, including the endemic Maltese wall lizard.

Mistra Valley

Mistra Valley stretches between Xemxija and Selmun.

Wardija Highland

An elevated plateau in the north of Malta.

Madliena Tower

A 17th-century coastal watchtower.

Vincent's Eco Farm

One of the largest organic farms in Malta, growing a variety of vegetables and fruits.