Esplora Interactive Science Centre, Malta’s flagship interactive science centre, is operated under the umbrella of Xjenza Malta. This means that Esplora’s exhibits, workshops and planetarium shows are part of the Agency’s broader effort to bring science to the public in an informal, hands-on way.

Once a Royal Navy hospital, this meticulously restored facility now boasts interconnected buildings and outdoor spaces, inviting exploration and discovery. It’s located in the historic Villa Bighi overlooking the Grand Harbour in Kalkara. The Life at Bighi exhibition, located in the Cot Lift at the entrance, offers a glimpse into Villa Bighi’s history during its hospital days, enriching the visitor experience with artefacts and memorabilia.

At Esplora, science comes alive as a vibrant and accessible domain, fostering curiosity and understanding through hands-on interaction. Guided by a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) approach, Esplora connects scientific ideas with creativity, design thinking and real-world problem-solving, helping visitors see science not only as knowledge, but also as something they can actively explore, build, test and express.  Through workshops, performances, science shows, and debates, visitors are immersed in an atmosphere where learning is both enjoyable and enlightening. Designed with careful consideration, Esplora’s spaces highlight the relevance of science in everyday life, encouraging visitors to explore at their own pace and engage with exhibits that showcase scientific phenomena.

 Key Features & Activities:

– Interactive Exhibits — over 200 hands-on exhibits covering topics like physics, biology, light, sound, electricity and more, encouraging learning through play and experimentation;

– Planetarium — a separate dome theatre offering immersive shows about space, the solar system and astronomy;

– Activity Centre & Workshops — live science shows, practical workshops, themed demonstrations and STEAM-focused activities;

– Outdoor Areas — gardens, playscapes and picnic spaces that extend the experience beyond the indoor halls;

– Historical Exhibition — displays and stories tied to the site’s past as Villa Bighi, adding cultural context;

– Visitor Services — Esplora also has a café and a gadget shop for visitors’ additional convenience.

Esplora offers an engaging blend of education and recreation, designed to make science fun, exciting and easy to understand through hands-on experiences suitable for all ages, especially families and children. Esplora offers something for everyone, of any age!