Officially opened on the 31st of August 1996.  Villa Messina is situated at the heart of Rabat, alongside the picturesque priory of St. Dominic’s.  The facility enjoys advantageous proximity to the rich, historical city of Mdina on one side and the sprawling countryside of Buskett and Dingli on the other.  The facility is built around manicured landscaped gardens.

Following a refurbishment project completed in May 2017, the original capacity of Villa Messina was increased to 219 persons.  Various High Dependency Units and a Special Care Unit specialising in dementia care offers professional care to a special segment of residents needing focused attention, care, and dedication. This Dementia Unit has 6 rooms with a possible complement of 14 residents. Villa Messina offers spacious, independent living units, all of which have a balcony.