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2 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 2 NOVEMBER 2025 CULTURE Haunted hospital at Esplora Embraces history, science, and education IF you love being part of Halloween ac- tivities or have never attended and are interested in experiencing it, between the 1st and the 5th of November this year, set aside some time and experi- ence the Halloween season with a dif- ference: a pleasant combination of his- tory, science, and education is the right recipe for that spooky taste. Built on history The building that today serves as the premises of Xjenza Malta has an extraor- dinary history dating back to the 17th century. In the 19th century, when the Maltese islands were under British rule, the main Villa, which was designed in 1675 by Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà to serve as a private summer residence for the Italian Knight and Prior of Cap- ua, Fra Giovanni Bichi, passed into the hands of the Civil Government. In 1827, King George IV granted the Admiralty permission to convert the building into a naval hospital. The foundation stone of Royal Naval Hospital Bighi was laid on March 23rd, 1830. For years, this hospital provided nursing and medi- cal care to most of the casualties from the Mediterranean during the Crimean Wars, World War I, and World War II. What to expect 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, cen- turies-old story waiting to be explored over five days through the themed event Esplora's Haunted Hospital. Visitors with a curious mind will be immersed in the building's story through atmos- phere-laden rooms, learn about medi- cal and health sciences through playful workshops and shows, and enjoy hands- on, interactive activities for everyone; age is not a limit! Event highlights: Science show Our body under siege Step into an interactive science show that reveals how our immune system protects us from invaders like bacteria and viruses. Packed with lively demon- strations and audience participation, this show makes medical science fun and easy to follow. With its spooky twist, Our Body Under Siege is exciting, educational, and perfect for children and families. Workshops Trick or treatment Learn practical first aid skills in a hands-on workshop designed for young learners. From bandaging to safe han- dling and emergency basics, this session builds confidence while playfully teach- ing life skills. Red alert! Discover what makes our blood unique in this colourful and interactive activity. Children will explore the components of blood and the differences between blood types through engaging experi- ments and teamwork. Anatomy at war Set in a WWII field hospital, partic- ipants role-play medical apprentices. The session blends history and science to show organ function under stress. The haunted hospital guided tour Step into the darker side of history with a captivating tour through time, where the walls whisper stories of the past. From mysterious carvings left by patients, including the chilling words of Dante's Inferno, "All hope abandon ye who enter here", to legends echoing through the former Insanity Ward just across from the burial site of the hospi- tal. Discover traces of wartime wounds, anecdotes of soldiers who sought refuge during their convalescence, while wit- nessing the horrible reality of air raids over the Grand Harbour. Did you ev- er wonder what those stone tubs were really for? A journey blending history, mystery, and science for those daring enough to explore what lies beneath Esplora's timeless walls. While our cos- tumes bring history vividly to life, we make sure our activities reflect today's values, celebrating curiosity, discovery, and science as adventures open to all genders. Reach esplora by sea Why not take advantage of our Luzzu experience and arrive at Esplora In- teractive Science Centre in a fun and stress-free way? The journey begins the moment guests board a traditional Maltese luzzu, departing from Vallet- ta and Sliema. A memorable boat ride with a picturesque backdrop of the nat- ural beauty, history, and culture that the majestic fortifications of the Grand Harbour have to offer. This journey will build enthusiasm before you arrive at Esplora's Haunted Hospital Adventure. Event Details: Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM For tickets visit: https://www.showshappening. com/esplora-interactive-science- centre/the-haunted-hospital Ticket Prices * Adult: €15 * Child (3 to 15 yrs): €13 * Infant (0 to 2 yrs): Free * Concessions: €10 * Individual Membership (children and/or adults): Free * Group Membership (up to four children and/or adults): Free * Educators' Card: Free