The megalithic complex of Ħaġar Qim is located atop a hill on the southern edge of the island of Malta, on a ridge capped in soft globigerina limestone. All exposed rock on the island was deposited during the Oligocene and Miocene periods of geological time. Globigerina limestone is the second oldest rock on Malta, outcropping over approximately 70% of the area of the islands.[9] The builders used this stone throughout the temple architecture.[10]
The temple’s façade is characterized by a trilithon entrance, outer bench and orthostats. It has a wide forecourt with a retaining wall and a passage runs through the middle of the building,[7] following a modifiedMaltese megalithic design.[1] A separate entrance gives access to four independent enclosures which replace the north-westerly apse.[11]
Features of temple architecture reveal a preoccupation with providing accommodation for animal sacrifices, burnt offerings and ritual oracles.[12] Recesses were used as depositories for sacrificial remains.Excavation has uncovered numerous statuettes of deities and highly decorated pottery.[12]
A 1776 engraving of Ħaġar Qim by Jean-Pierre Houël
No burials exist in the temple or the area surrounding Ħaġar Qim, nor have any human bones been discovered in Maltese temples.[13] Bones of numerous sacrificial animals have been found.