Esplora Interactive Science Centre

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Esplora Interactive Science Centre is a world-class science destination located at Villa Bighi in Kalkara, Malta, overlooking the stunning Grand Harbour. Opened on 28 October 2016, this vibrant museum encourages visitors of all ages to explore, think, and imagine through hands-on experiments and immersive exhibits reddit.com+14esplora.org.mt+14mymalta.guide+14. Whether you are a family, a student, or a curious traveler, Esplora offers a joyful learning experience that showcases how science relates directly to our everyday lives.

About the Museum

Set within a beautifully restored former Royal Navy hospital and historic Villa Bighi complex, the centre spans interconnected buildings and outdoor spaces. The main exhibition halls feature more than 200 interactive exhibits, covering everything from earth science and human biology to electricity, motion, and environmental science.

A highlight of Esplora is its Planetarium, housed in a circular structure with a 10.7‑metre dome and a state‑of‑the‑art ColourSpace 4K projection system. It screens full‑dome astronomical shows and cultural presentations like the “One Sky Project,” which explores indigenous sky‑watching traditions from around the world.

Adjacent to the exhibition halls is the Activity Centre, where scheduled workshops and science shows bring themes such as bubbles, electricity, and the human body to life. Esplora also offers inclusive facilities like a multisensory room for visitors with accessibility needs, plus family amenities such as bottle warmers, changing rooms, and wheelchair access.

Outside, the centre’s beautifully landscaped gardens provide an Outdoor Adventure Zone, complete with water and sound exhibits, a botanical area, a pirate ship, an amphitheatre, and scenic picnic spots with views over Grand Harbour. When you need a break, you can relax in the EsploraCafé, which overlooks the spectacular surroundings, or browse educational items at the EsploraShop.

Interesting Facts

Historic transformation: The centre is set within Villa Bighi, originally built in 1675 for the Knights of St John, later converted into a Royal Navy hospital, and now beautifully rehabilitated into a modern science museum.
Science meets culture: The Planetarium features the “One Sky Project,” a programme showcasing how different cultures interpret the night sky through stories from Greek, Native American, and Indian traditions.
Cutting‑edge maritime exhibition: In March 2024, Esplora unveiled “Dive In,” a permanent exhibition that uses holograms, virtual reality, and a humanoid robot to explore marine biodiversity and ocean literacy.
Family‑friendly for all ages: From toddler‑focused multisensory rooms and indoor slides to hands‑on activities for older children and adults, there truly is something magical for everyone.
EU‑backed investment: The project received approximately €11.5 million in EU funding and has hosted over 200 interactive exhibits since its opening.
Top‑rated attraction: Selected by the European Commission as part of the Cohesion Policy anniversary and consistently ranking among the top 10 percent of global attractions on TripAdvisor.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +3562 360 2300

Website: https://esplora.org.mt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esploramalta

Conclusion

Visiting Esplora is more than just a museum trip — it is a full‑day adventure that delights the senses, ignites curiosity, and bridges the gap between science and everyday life. With interactive exhibits, immersive planetarium shows, hands‑on workshops, inclusive facilities, and scenic outdoor spaces, the centre offers an inspiring experience for all. Its fusion of historical ambience with cutting‑edge science makes Esplora a compelling destination for families, tourists, and lifelong learners alike. Whether you are pressing buttons in the Electricity Room, drifting under the star‑filled dome, or exploring the depths of our oceans through virtual reality, Esplora promises a fun, educational, and memorable visit—right in the heart of Malta.