The top physicians gather in the lecture room share their findings into human anatomy - conclusions based on research or 'in practicum'. In turn, the physicians take the podium to contribute to the discussion. Some use human organs to explain their point of discussion, while others use diagrams. Many jot down notes, but all actively engage in the conference that develops in a two-way channel between speaker and listener.

It all happens at The Sacra Infermeria (Holy Infirmary), a painstakingly produced, realistic re-enactment of Europe's longest hospital ward during the time of the Knights of St John in Malta. Visitors, on entering, absorb the heavy and sombre atmosphere.

The Sacra Infermeria occupies a site above the Grand Harbour near Fort St. Elmo. Functioning as a hospital from 1574, the infirmary provided about 900 beds for male patients who included knights, soldiers, sailors and foreigners. Maltese patients and slaves received treatment in a large hall below the main ward.

The hospital’s school of anatomy and surgery has benches for the students at one side, and the lecture's rostrum on the opposite side. The counter full of containers with human organs, powders and tools of experimentation, and many such props, makes the picture complete. The Ward contains canopied beds with side-furniture, patients and doctors. In the Pharmacy the physician and his assistant preparing medicine mixture compliment the atmosphere.

At the ward, other physicians are at their chores, aided by their orderlies. Some examine the bedridden; others are at their desk registering the progress of their patients. Occasionally the physicians meet for an impromptu consultation, either near one of the beds or at the chemist's counter. Meanwhile, patients in an advanced stage of convalescence stroll up and down the aisle, either aided by the orderlies or crutches. Orderlies help a new patient to settle down in his temporary home, while others stand by one on the brink of death. Consoled by the priest, he breathes his last under the watchful eye of the physician. The orderlies take over to shroud the corpse.

The pharmacist, busy mixing medicine, consults books and carries on serving clients simultaneously. His assistant is busy wiping out a new glass bottle, mixing potions and powders and registering new medicine.

When the Knights were forced to leave the Island in 1798, Napoleons' troops used the hospital for their own personnel. The British, who took over Malta's government in 1800, renamed the Infirmary 'Station Hospital', and used it to treat wounded soldiers in the Crimean War. They operated the hospital until the end of the First World War.

The Mediterranean Conference Centre and 'The Malta Experience', is also within the complex. A modern theatre offers an audio-visual show in 10 languages. It offers a dramatic presentation explains the history of Malta, from Neolithic to modern times. As a starting point for exploring the island, it shouldn’t be missed.