Sacra Infermeria

Historic Building in Valletta

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Oracle64

The Sacra Infermeria stands as one of Valletta's most remarkable historical buildings — once a grand hospital founded by the Knights of St. John and now a beautifully preserved cultural landmark. Established in the 16th century, it was considered one of the most advanced medical institutions of its time, with an astonishing capacity of over 900 beds. Its vast Great Ward, stretching an impressive 160 meters, showcased both the ambition and compassion of the Knights Hospitaller, who dedicated their lives to healing and hospitality.

More than just a place of medicine, the Sacra Infermeria was a model of innovation and care. The Knights emphasized cleanliness, ventilation, and patient comfort — rare concepts in medieval healthcare. Patients were treated in individual beds, served meals on silver plates, and cared for with dignity regardless of background. During the Great Siege of 1565, the hospital became a vital center for the wounded, and later, in 1813, it played an important role in fighting the plague epidemic that swept across Malta.

Over the centuries, the Sacra Infermeria adapted to changing times, serving as a school, police headquarters, and theatre, reflecting the evolving needs of Maltese society. Though damaged during World War II bombings, it was lovingly restored and repurposed as the Mediterranean Conference Centre in 1979. Today, its grand halls and vaulted chambers host international events, concerts, and exhibitions, ensuring that the spirit of the building remains active and alive.

Visitors can still explore parts of the site, which function as a museum dedicated to the Knights' medical legacy and Valletta's cultural history. The architecture itself — with soaring arches, limestone corridors, and one of the longest halls in Europe — is a tribute to the Knights' vision and craftsmanship. The Sacra Infermeria stands not only as a monument to Malta's healing heritage but also as a vibrant bridge between the island's illustrious past and modern life.

The Sacra Infermeria appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

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