The Sleeping Goddess is a remarkable ceramic statue discovered in the pits of the Hypogeum at Ħal Saflieni, Malta, dating back to 3600-2400 BCE. The statue depicts a woman, possibly a priestess, lying on her side on a chair, with her upper body exposed and wearing a pleated dress. The surface of the statue retains traces of red ochre, indicating a connection to the religious rituals and burial customs of the people during that period.
The Sleeping Goddess is not only a unique work of art but also a symbol of Neolithic culture in Malta. Its presence in the Hypogeum—a sacred burial and ritual area—emphasizes the importance of women and goddesses in the beliefs of ancient Maltese people. Additionally, the statue reflects the community’s concepts of sleep, death, and the spiritual world.
Today, the Sleeping Goddess is one of the highlights at the National Museum of Archaeology in Malta. The statue attracts interest from researchers and has become a symbol of cultural heritage and national identity for Malta, continuing to inspire many generations.
