The surgical implements in this room are unique: they are the only doctor's instruments to have survived from the Hospitaller Order in silver from the 18th century. They were made in the reign of the French Grand Master Manuel de Rohan Polduc. The velvet case is original. The Knights of Malta as well as being a military and a religious order were also very advanced in surgery. They could operate on a cataract of the eyes and also remove a gallstone. Their hospital housed the largest ward in Europe and could look after over 600 patients.

 

There is some antique Maltese silver in the showcase such as the coconut tobacco jars with the silver-gilt cockerel finials. The cockerel was the heraldic emblem of the noble family of Gargallo one of whom was a notorious Bishop of Malta.

 

 

If you wish to see more have a look at our 360° virtual tour:

 

 

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This room also has a collection of modern paintings.