The building that today serves as the premises of Xjenza Malta has an extraordinary history dating back to the 17th century. The main Villa, was designed in 1675 by Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafa to serve as a private summer residence for the Italian Knight and Prior of Capua, Fra Giovanni Bichi.
In the 19th century, when the Maltese Islands were under British Rule, the Villa passed into the hands of the Civil Government and in 1827, King George IV gave permission to the Admiralty to transform the building into a naval hospital. The foundation stone of Royal Naval Hospital Bighi was laid on March 23rd, 1830. For years, this hospital contributed to the nursing and medical care of most of the casualties that occurred in the Mediterranean during the Crimean Wars, World War I and World War II.
Perched on the edge of Kalkara’s Grand Harbour, Esplora is known as Malta’s vibrant interactive science centre—but hidden within its walls lies a rich, centuries-old story waiting to be explored. Beginning May 2025, Esplora opens its doors to the past with a new series of curated history tours that bring the fascinating legacy of Villa Bighi to life.
With the help of Nurse Watson, who will serve as a virtual guide for this tour, come and walk in the footsteps of nurses who worked at the hospital. The tour also gives some insights on the various patients that were treated within these exhibit halls, which once served as hospital wards. Check the Insanity Ward as well as the Surgical Wards and observe the shrapnel damage which is still set in stone from the heavy bombings on the hospital during World War II.
Download the Self-Led History tour brochure from here and follow the trail to experience some very interesting historical facts about these premises!
Every Thursday at 1:00 PM | 30 minutes
Free (with entry ticket)
Pressed for time but intrigued by Malta’s maritime legacy? This bite-sized storytelling session offers the perfect introduction. In just half an hour, discover how Villa Bighi evolved from a 19th-century military hospital into the architectural gem it is today. Held by the landmark Cot Lift, this quick experience is great for casual visitors and first-timers alike—and it’s complimentary with your Esplora ticket.
Every other Saturday & Sunday + Public Holidays | 1.5 hours
€5 Adults | €2 Seniors & Children
For those wanting a deeper dive into Malta’s history, this guided weekend tour delivers. Stroll through Villa Bighi’s restored interiors and terraces, explore hidden corners, and uncover the stories etched into its stone. Open to visitors aged 10 and up, the tour includes the awe-inspiring Cot Lift and rich insights into the building’s military-medical heritage. Spaces are limited—so book early at the ticket desk or by email!
Upcoming dates:
By Pre-Booking Only | 3–6 hours
€25 Adults | €18 Children
Looking to make the most of your day out? Esplora’s immersive full-day experience offers an unforgettable blend of history, science, and local culture. Perfect for groups, families, and visitors who want something more than your standard museum trip.
This exclusive package includes:
Minimum group size: 4. Groups of 15+ enjoy 10% off. Booking is essential.
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Whether you’re a solo explorer or planning your next group outing, Esplora’s Villa Bighi history tours offer a rare chance to walk through the layers of Malta’s scientific and cultural past.
Bookings & Info:
📧 info@esplora.org.mt
📞 +356 2360 2249 / +356 2360 2300
