WATCH: Digging Into Malta’s Farming Roots at Recently Opened Tax-Xierfa Museum
Charlie Busuttil
Emily A. Francis makes her way to the Tax-Xierfa Agriculture Museum in Rabat, uncovering a captivating journey through Malta’s farming heritage, from ancient tools and tombs to traditional food-making, all lovingly preserved by founder Charlie Busuttil.
As many of you know, the ‘Emily in Malta’ series has been an ongoing exploration of the island’s rich agricultural heritage, highlighting local farms and the beauty of seasonal produce across Malta and Gozo. I have an enormous fondness for learning about the local cuisine always using local ingredients and meeting with the islands most charming people of all: the farmers of Malta and Gozo.
I had the pleasure of visiting one of the most unique gems yet: the Tax-Xierfa Agriculture Museum, founded by the passionate Carmel Busuttil, affectionately known as Charlie, and guided by his welcoming tour host, James Mizzi.
This open-air and underground museum is a stunning tribute to Malta’s farming past. It exceeded every expectation I had, offering a deeply immersive experience in a clean, well-maintained space that honours the ingenuity of Maltese farmers.
Set in a charming corner of Rabat, Tax-Xierfa is more than just a collection of old tools, it’s a living storybook. From wheat harvesting to rabbit hunting, traditional wine pressing to the original methods of making Kunserva (Maltese tomato paste), the exhibits walk you through centuries of rural Maltese life.
One particularly fascinating feature is a secret tomb nestled in the lower level, complete with a skeleton you can peek through and find within a sacred tomb paying tribute to the town in Rabat where so many skeletons were found underneath the houses built.
You’ll also discover ingenious irrigation techniques using rainwater, an old mule and the evolution of farming equipment, demonstrating the deep connections between people and land. You won’t find the mule here anymore; however, you can walk seven times around the circle pushing the wood lever yourself and find that the water will build up and then come out the other side sharing cool, crisp clean water ready to feed anything that needs fresh water!
Visitors are welcomed with a short film that sets the stage, followed by a self-guided or hosted tour of the museum’s fascinating displays. It’s a hands-on journey into the island’s past. It’s a mix of education and entertainment.
Whether you’re a curious traveller, a school group, or a local eager to reconnect with your roots, Tax-Xierfa is an absolute must-visit.
The warmth of the staff, the thoughtful curation, and the cultural importance of what’s been preserved make this an unforgettable stop on any Maltese itinerary. There is also a bit of local produce from Charlie’s farm outside the museum along with olive oil bottles for sale from his own orchard.
You will also spot other traditional items from fellow locals such as the famous helwa-tat tork, or local homemade jam. Thoughtfully laid out, there is something for everyone here.
Thanks to Charlie’s vision and dedication, we now have a beautiful new way to step back in time and celebrate the ingenuity and spirit of Malta’s farming community. Don’t miss the chance to experience this rare and meaningful treasure.
