If you want a Halloween weekend plan that is more history than horror, Heritage Malta’s Refrigerium at Ta’ Bistra Catacombs in Mosta is worth a look. It takes place on Saturday 31 October 2026 at 19:00 and mixes a guided visit of the catacombs with a meal inspired by Roman food traditions.
What is a refrigerium?
In Roman times, families returned to the graves of their loved ones to share a meal in their memory. This was the refrigerium, a moment of remembrance rather than grief, and some of Malta’s catacombs still have the round stone tables carved for these meals. The evening starts with a curator explaining the site and this custom, then moves on to a historically informed dinner. The full menu is published as a PDF on the Heritage Malta event page, so check it if you have allergies or dietary needs.
Tickets and booking
- Adults €70, Heritage Malta members €60
- Book online through the Heritage Malta store or at any Heritage Malta museum or site
- Places are limited, so do not leave it to the last day
- The finishing time is not published, so plan for a full evening
Heritage Malta shares any postponements on its WhatsApp channel, which is handy if the weather turns.
Tips for visitors
Catacombs are cool and the ground can be uneven, so wear flat shoes and bring a light layer. The underground passages are narrow in places, which is something to consider if you are not comfortable in tight spaces. If you liked the idea of visiting the site but prefer a shorter, cheaper option, keep an eye on the occasional Ta’ Bistra special openings. For family-friendly ideas on the same weekend, see our Halloween in Malta guide.
How to get there
Ta’ Bistra Catacombs are on Triq il-Missjunarji Maltin, on the edge of Mosta, and the nearest bus stop is about a five minute walk away. Mosta is well served by buses from Valletta and the north. If you drive, street parking is usually easier in the evening than during the day.
For more plans for the coming days, check Malta This Week.