The "Sacra Infermeria"
The Building of Valletta St.John's Co-Cathedral and Museum The Auberges The Grandmaster's Palace The Manoel Theatre		The "Sacra Infermeria" (which in English means The Sacred Hospital), which was built in 1574, is the new enlarged and better-equipped hospital of the Order of St. John, after the original hospital in "Birgu" (which was built in 1532) was abandoned. The long, severe facade in Mediterranean Street overlooks the Grand Harbour. The architect is unknown, but may have been Girolamo Cassar or one of his pupils. Traditionally, the head of the French Langue was responsible for the hospital. There were six wards, the largest of which measured 161 metres in length. Each patient had his own bed, which was most usual at that time. It was also a thoroughly progressive and democratic institution, caring for everyone from orphans, the poor and slaves, to pilgrims. The Knights took turns caring for the patients, as this was part of their Vow. There was also a library and faculties for anatomy, surgery and pharmacy on the premises. In 1798, the French looted most of the Gold and Silverware, which was used in catering for the patients. Today, the building houses the Mediterranean Conference Centre, one of the most attractive and popular conference centres in Europe. Here, you can also see an excellent audio-visual presentation about the history of Malta - The "Malta Experience"..