
While the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Malta hosts a variety of cultural events today, this place was originally built as a hospital back in the 16th century. Over the last few hundred years, the centre has undergone a number of significant renovations, which has eventually earned it the prestigious Europa Nostra Award for its gorgeous preservation. With vaulted ceilings, cross-shaped corridors and a grand staircase, once one of Europe’s largest hospitals is now the meticulously-decorated epicentre for events in Malta.
A little bit of history on Mediterranean Conference Centre
Having designed St. John’s Co-Cathedral a year prior, Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar drew up the plans for the hospital that was founded in 1574. The building could accommodate up to 2500 patients, making it the ideal space to be used as a military hospital during the French occupation between 1798-1800. Over 200 years later, the site was transformed in 1979 into Mediterranean Conference Centre — a historic event space sporting 400-year-old frescoes, Knights’ coats of arms and Baroque architecture.
What can you do at Mediterranean Conference Centre?
Aside from conferences and weddings, there’re a host of unique events to enjoy here, from dance shows to musical productions and more. Visitors can also experience a themed dinner that transports you back in time to enjoy a banquet featuring performances by knights, royalty and medieval performers.
Formerly the Sacra Infermeria’s Great Magazine Ward, La Valette Hall is the main hall that provides the breathtaking setting for the enchanting Candlelight concert series. Under grand, vaulted ceilings, audiences sit back an enjoy soothing renditions of iconic songs and works by the likes of ABBA, Vivaldi and Ennio Morricone. A sea of candles flickers away as classically-trained musicians perform inside this centuries-old Malta landmark.
Is there parking available?
There’re no parking facilities on site, but the closest car park is MCP Parking Garage in Floriana.
Can the facilities be hired out?
Yes, Grand Harbour Terrace, Sacra Infermeria Hall and La Valette Hall can be hired out for private functions.
Is the MCC wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the MCC is wheelchair accessible.
A seven-minute walk from the iconic Grandmaster’s Palace, The Mediterranean Conference Centre is located close to the Grand Harbour at Triq l-Isptar in Valletta, Malta. If you’re travelling by bus, routes 98 and 198 pass by, and the nearest stop is Nawfragju which is just over a minutes-walk away. Visitors coming from Sliema or Cospicua can also take the ferry to Valletta.