Rabat is a town located just outside the walls of Mdina. The name “Rabat” comes from Arabic and means “suburb”, as it was once a district of Mdina.
Historical and Religious Significance
- According to Christian tradition, Saint Paul stayed in Rabat and founded the first Christian community in Malta.
- The Grotto of Saint Paul and the catacombs are found here, among the oldest Christian sites.
- Several monasteries and convents are scattered throughout the area.
Cart Ruts in Rabat
Rabat is one of many places in the Mediterranean area that feature the so-called cart ruts — grooves in the ground resembling tracks left by carts, often forming a network similar to rail switchyards.