<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Crossfire by Rivet Software version 4.3.96.0 http://www.rivetsoftware.com-->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 2/29/2012 1:24:41 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 2/29/2012 1:24:42 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapital" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapital" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapitalParenthetical" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapitalParenthetical" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsParenthetical" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsParenthetical" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableTables" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableTables" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitTables" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitTables" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataTables" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataTables" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesNarrativeDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesScheduleOfCarryingValueOfVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesScheduleOfCarryingValueOfVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesUsefulLivesOfRelatedRealEstateAndOtherAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesUsefulLivesOfRelatedRealEstateAndOtherAssetsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableAcquisitionsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableAcquisitionsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableDisposalsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableDisposalsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableIntangibleAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableIntangibleAssetsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLeaseOperationsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLeaseOperationsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLoansConcentrationOfCreditRiskAndRelatedPartyTransactionDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLoansConcentrationOfCreditRiskAndRelatedPartyTransactionDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableListOfAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableListOfAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfMinimumRentalPaymentsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfMinimumRentalPaymentsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfLoansDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfLoansDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtNarrativeDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtRevolvingCreditFacilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtRevolvingCreditFacilitiesDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtSeniorUnsecuredNotesDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtSeniorUnsecuredNotesDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtExchangeableSeniorNotesDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtExchangeableSeniorNotesDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtTermLoansAndCovenantsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtTermLoansAndCovenantsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDebtSummaryOfDebtDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtSummaryOfDebtDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitCalculationOfEarningsPerShareUnitDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitCalculationOfEarningsPerShareUnitDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureStockAwardsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureStockAwardsNarrativeDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureStockAwardsRestrictedEquityAwardsActivityDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureStockAwardsRestrictedEquityAwardsActivityDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureCommonStockPartnerSCapitalDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCommonStockPartnerSCapitalDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfFairValueInformationOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfFairValueInformationOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsNarrativeDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsScheduleOfDiscontinuedOperationsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsScheduleOfDiscontinuedOperationsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataSummaryOfUnauditedQuarterlyFinancialInformationDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataSummaryOfUnauditedQuarterlyFinancialInformationDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureValuationAndQualifyingAccountsScheduleOfValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureValuationAndQualifyingAccountsScheduleOfValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationScheduleOfRealEstateInvestmentsAndAccumulatedDepreciationDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationScheduleOfRealEstateInvestmentsAndAccumulatedDepreciationDetails" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#DisclosureMortgageLoanOnRealEstateScheduleOfMortgageLoanOnRealEstateDetails" roleURI="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureMortgageLoanOnRealEstateScheduleOfMortgageLoanOnRealEstateDetails" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00090 - Document - Document And Entity Information">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_634661186729328769" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_634661186729328769" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:label="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:label="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityPublicFloat" xlink:label="dei_EntityPublicFloat" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityPublicFloat" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00100 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_634661186729484786" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_634661186729484786" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LtipUnitsMember" xlink:label="mpw_LtipUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LtipUnitsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Land" xlink:label="us-gaap_Land" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Land" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" xlink:label="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" xlink:label="mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" xlink:label="mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OtherLoans" xlink:label="mpw_OtherLoans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_OtherLoans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PayableDueToParentCompany" xlink:label="mpw_PayableDueToParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_PayableDueToParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Capital" xlink:label="us-gaap_Capital" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Capital" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00105 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LtipUnitsMember" xlink:label="mpw_LtipUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LtipUnitsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00200 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Income">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RentBilled" xlink:label="mpw_RentBilled" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RentBilled" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRent" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LoanImpairmentCharge" xlink:label="mpw_LoanImpairmentCharge" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_LoanImpairmentCharge" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AcquisitionCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AcquisitionCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AcquisitionCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" xlink:label="mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapital" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00300 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Equity/Capital">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_634661186729640803" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_634661186729640803" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="mpw_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" xlink:label="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" xlink:label="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDeferredStockUnitsIssuedToDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockVestingAndAmortizationOfStockBasedCompensation" xlink:label="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockVestingAndAmortizationOfStockBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockVestingAndAmortizationOfStockBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalStockIssuedIssuanceCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesProceedsFromOfferingCost" xlink:label="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesProceedsFromOfferingCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesProceedsFromOfferingCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ExtinguishmentOfDebtAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExtinguishmentOfDebtAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExtinguishmentOfDebtAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromDistributionsToNoncontrollingInterestHolders" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityCapitalParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00305 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Equity/Capital (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00400 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PremiumPaidOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" xlink:label="mpw_PremiumPaidOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_PremiumPaidOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRentRevenue" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRentRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRentRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PaymentOfInterestOnEarlyPrepaymentOfDebt" xlink:label="mpw_PaymentOfInterestOnEarlyPrepaymentOfDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_PaymentOfInterestOnEarlyPrepaymentOfDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestAndRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestAndRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_IncreaseDecreaseInInterestAndRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForConstructionInProcess" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForConstructionInProcess" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForConstructionInProcess" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" xlink:label="mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" xlink:label="mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashInvestingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashInvestingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateAssumption" xlink:label="mpw_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateAssumption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateAssumption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashFinancingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashFinancingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LoansAssumedMortgageLoanRealEstateAcquired" xlink:label="mpw_LoansAssumedMortgageLoanRealEstateAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_LoansAssumedMortgageLoanRealEstateAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsPayableAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsPayableAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_SupplementalScheduleOfNonCashFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsPayableAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00405 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidCapitalized" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidCapitalized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidCapitalized" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="20202 - Disclosure - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:label="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InvestmentsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_InvestmentsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_InvestmentsInUnconsolidatedEntitiesPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcquiredRealEstatePurchasePriceAllocationPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_AcquiredRealEstatePurchasePriceAllocationPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AcquiredRealEstatePurchasePriceAllocationPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndDepreciationPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndDepreciationPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAndDepreciationPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LossesFromRentReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_LossesFromRentReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LossesFromRentReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableMortgageAndMortgageBackedSecuritiesValuationPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableMortgageAndMortgageBackedSecuritiesValuationPolicy" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableMortgageAndMortgageBackedSecuritiesValuationPolicy" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerSharePolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerSharePolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerSharePolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationRelatedCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationRelatedCostsPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CompensationRelatedCostsPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredChargesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredChargesPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredChargesPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReclassificationsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="mpw_ReclassificationsPolicyTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ReclassificationsPolicyTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30303 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" xlink:label="mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleofFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpenseTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumRentalPaymentsForOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30603 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share/Unit (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" xlink:label="mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCalculationOfNumeratorAndDenominatorInEarningsPerShareTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCalculationOfNumeratorAndDenominatorInEarningsPerShareTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCalculationOfNumeratorAndDenominatorInEarningsPerShareTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31203 - Disclosure - Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfQuarterlyFinancialInformationTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfQuarterlyFinancialInformationTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfQuarterlyFinancialInformationTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MarketConditionsBasedAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_MarketConditionsBasedAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MarketConditionsBasedAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ExpectedLeaseUpPeriodsForEstimatingLostRentals" xlink:label="mpw_ExpectedLeaseUpPeriodsForEstimatingLostRentals" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ExpectedLeaseUpPeriodsForEstimatingLostRentals" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfOrdinaryTaxableIncomeToBeDistributedForRealEstateInvestmentTrustQualification" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfOrdinaryTaxableIncomeToBeDistributedForRealEstateInvestmentTrustQualification" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfOrdinaryTaxableIncomeToBeDistributedForRealEstateInvestmentTrustQualification" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfYearsOfFederalIncomeTaxAtCorporateRatesOnFailureToQualifyAsRealEstateInvestmentTrust" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfYearsOfFederalIncomeTaxAtCorporateRatesOnFailureToQualifyAsRealEstateInvestmentTrust" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfYearsOfFederalIncomeTaxAtCorporateRatesOnFailureToQualifyAsRealEstateInvestmentTrust" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesScheduleOfCarryingValueOfVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40202 - Disclosure - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Variable Interest Entities) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfVariableInterestEntitiesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfVariableInterestEntitiesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfVariableInterestEntitiesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntitiesByClassificationOfEntityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OtherLoansMember" xlink:label="mpw_OtherLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_OtherLoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassificationOfVariableInterestEntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfVariableInterestEntitiesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityEntityMaximumLossExposureAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityEntityMaximumLossExposureAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityEntityMaximumLossExposureAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityConsolidatedCarryingAmountAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityConsolidatedCarryingAmountAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableInterestEntityConsolidatedCarryingAmountAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesUsefulLivesOfRelatedRealEstateAndOtherAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40203 - Disclosure - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Useful Lives Of Related Real Estate And Other Assets) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TenantLeaseIntangiblesMember" xlink:label="mpw_TenantLeaseIntangiblesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TenantLeaseIntangiblesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TenantImprovementsMember" xlink:label="mpw_TenantImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TenantImprovementsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FurnitureEquipmentAndOtherMember" xlink:label="mpw_FurnitureEquipmentAndOtherMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FurnitureEquipmentAndOtherMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeAverage" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeAverage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeAverage" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableAcquisitionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Acquisitions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessAffiliatesAxis" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesAxis" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesAxis" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain_634661186729952837" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HospitalOperatorMember" xlink:label="mpw_HospitalOperatorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HospitalOperatorMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FormerOperatorsMember" xlink:label="mpw_FormerOperatorsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_BusinessAffiliatesDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FormerOperatorsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_634661186729952837" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_634661186729952837" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GilbertHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_GilbertHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_GilbertHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AtriumMedicalCenterMember" xlink:label="mpw_AtriumMedicalCenterMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AtriumMedicalCenterMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BayonneMedicalCenterMember" xlink:label="mpw_BayonneMedicalCenterMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BayonneMedicalCenterMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AlvaradoHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_AlvaradoHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AlvaradoHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_KindredHealthcareIncMember" xlink:label="mpw_KindredHealthcareIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_KindredHealthcareIncMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VibraSpecialtyHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_VibraSpecialtyHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VibraSpecialtyHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TriumphHospitalClearLakeMember" xlink:label="mpw_TriumphHospitalClearLakeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TriumphHospitalClearLakeMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TriumphHospitalTomballMember" xlink:label="mpw_TriumphHospitalTomballMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TriumphHospitalTomballMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcuteCareHospitalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_AcuteCareHospitalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AcuteCareHospitalsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LongTermAcuteCareHospitalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_LongTermAcuteCareHospitalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LongTermAcuteCareHospitalsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" xlink:label="mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessAcquisitionNumberOfEntitiesAcquired" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessAcquisitionNumberOfEntitiesAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessAcquisitionNumberOfEntitiesAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeasePeriod" xlink:label="mpw_LeasePeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeasePeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfRentEscalation" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfRentEscalation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfRentEscalation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLand" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLand" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLand" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseExpirationDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseExpirationDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseExpirationDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ConvertibleNotePurchased" xlink:label="mpw_ConvertibleNotePurchased" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ConvertibleNotePurchased" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentAggregateCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentAggregateCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentAggregateCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" xlink:label="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WorkingCapitalLoanToJointVenture" xlink:label="mpw_WorkingCapitalLoanToJointVenture" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_WorkingCapitalLoanToJointVenture" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" xlink:label="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcquisitionRelatedCostsOnConsummatedDeals" xlink:label="mpw_AcquisitionRelatedCostsOnConsummatedDeals" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AcquisitionRelatedCostsOnConsummatedDeals" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableDisposalsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40302 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Disposals) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessDisposalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessDisposalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessDisposalsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SharpstownFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_SharpstownFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SharpstownFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcuteCareMedicalCenterMember" xlink:label="mpw_AcuteCareMedicalCenterMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AcuteCareMedicalCenterMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AcuteCareFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_InpatientRehabilitationHospitalsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessDisposalsNumberOfEntitiesDisposed" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessDisposalsNumberOfEntitiesDisposed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessDisposalsNumberOfEntitiesDisposed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" xlink:label="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" xlink:label="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableIntangibleAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40303 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Intangible Assets) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" xlink:label="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWeightedAverageUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWeightedAverageUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWeightedAverageUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLeaseOperationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40304 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Lease Operations) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_IntangibleAssetsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeasingOperationsMember" xlink:label="mpw_LeasingOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LeasingOperationsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LtachFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_LtachFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LtachFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BucksCountyFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_BucksCountyFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BucksCountyFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GeneralAcuteCareHospitalsMember" xlink:label="mpw_GeneralAcuteCareHospitalsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_GeneralAcuteCareHospitalsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReddingHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_ReddingHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ReddingHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MonroeHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_MonroeHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MonroeHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DenhamSpringsFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_DenhamSpringsFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DenhamSpringsFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TerminatedLeases" xlink:label="mpw_TerminatedLeases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_TerminatedLeases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeasePeriod" xlink:label="mpw_LeasePeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeasePeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfLeasesRenewed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfExtensionOptionsInCurrentLeaseContract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseExtensionPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" xlink:label="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" xlink:label="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_EarlyLeaseTerminationFees" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInLeasingReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInLeasingReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInLeasingReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInUnbilledReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInUnbilledReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInUnbilledReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMortgageNotesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMortgageNotesReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMortgageNotesReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromTenantAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromTenantAllowance" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromTenantAllowance" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableCommercialRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableCommercialRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableCommercialRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsFutureAmortizationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UncollectibleRentAndOtherReceivablesWriteOffInLeaseTermination" xlink:label="mpw_UncollectibleRentAndOtherReceivablesWriteOffInLeaseTermination" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_UncollectibleRentAndOtherReceivablesWriteOffInLeaseTermination" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByFormerTenantParentCompany" xlink:label="mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByFormerTenantParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByFormerTenantParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriodIncludingPreviousValues" xlink:label="mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriodIncludingPreviousValues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriodIncludingPreviousValues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedRentCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedRentCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedRentCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnpaidRent" xlink:label="mpw_UnpaidRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_UnpaidRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ChargeToUnpaidRent" xlink:label="mpw_ChargeToUnpaidRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ChargeToUnpaidRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPaymentsPrevious" xlink:label="mpw_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPaymentsPrevious" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPaymentsPrevious" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsPresentValueOfNetMinimumPayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdvanceRent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdvanceRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdvanceRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" xlink:label="mpw_OperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_OperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AccruedOperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" xlink:label="mpw_AccruedOperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AccruedOperatingLeasesRentInterestAndOtherChargesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InitialCashRent" xlink:label="mpw_InitialCashRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="33" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_InitialCashRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OperatingLeaseRateOfIncreaseInAnnualRent" xlink:label="mpw_OperatingLeaseRateOfIncreaseInAnnualRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="34" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_OperatingLeaseRateOfIncreaseInAnnualRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="35" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AdvancedAmountOfWorkingCapitalLoanAgreement" xlink:label="mpw_AdvancedAmountOfWorkingCapitalLoanAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="36" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AdvancedAmountOfWorkingCapitalLoanAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="37" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="38" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationMembershipInterestOfOperatorOrLesseeConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" xlink:label="mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationMembershipInterestOfOperatorOrLesseeConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="39" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationMembershipInterestOfOperatorOrLesseeConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByParent" xlink:label="mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByParent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="40" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ReceivablesGuaranteedByParent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationPatientReceivablesConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" xlink:label="mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationPatientReceivablesConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="41" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ImpairmentOfWorkingCapitalLoanEstimationPatientReceivablesConsideredForFirstPrioritySecuredInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GainResultedInExchangeOfRealEstateProperty" xlink:label="mpw_GainResultedInExchangeOfRealEstateProperty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="42" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_GainResultedInExchangeOfRealEstateProperty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRentReceivablesWriteOff" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivablesWriteOff" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="43" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivablesWriteOff" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AdditionalRentReceivedFromLeaseAgreement" xlink:label="mpw_AdditionalRentReceivedFromLeaseAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="44" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AdditionalRentReceivedFromLeaseAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EstimatedFutureRentAmountExpectedFromLeaseAgreement" xlink:label="mpw_EstimatedFutureRentAmountExpectedFromLeaseAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="45" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_EstimatedFutureRentAmountExpectedFromLeaseAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriod" xlink:label="mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="46" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_IncomeExpectedToRecognizeFromRemainingLeasePeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfDaysPastDue" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfDaysPastDue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="47" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfDaysPastDue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableLoansConcentrationOfCreditRiskAndRelatedPartyTransactionDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40305 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Loans, Concentration Of Credit Risk And Related Party Transaction) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PrimeHealthCareServicesMember" xlink:label="mpw_PrimeHealthCareServicesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_PrimeHealthCareServicesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" xlink:label="mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VibraHealthCareMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IndividualPropertyBasisMember" xlink:label="mpw_IndividualPropertyBasisMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:to="mpw_IndividualPropertyBasisMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNewMortgageLoans" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNewMortgageLoans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNewMortgageLoans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLoanAndLeaseOriginationsAndPrincipalCollections" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLoanAndLeaseOriginationsAndPrincipalCollections" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLoanAndLeaseOriginationsAndPrincipalCollections" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RevenueFromTransactionAsPercentage" xlink:label="mpw_RevenueFromTransactionAsPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_RevenueFromTransactionAsPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AssetFromTransactionAsPercentage" xlink:label="mpw_AssetFromTransactionAsPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AssetFromTransactionAsPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseAndInterestRevenueEarnedFromTenants" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseAndInterestRevenueEarnedFromTenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLendingActivitiesLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseAndInterestRevenueEarnedFromTenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableListOfAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40306 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (List Of Assets Purchased As Part Of Acquisitions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssetsMember" xlink:label="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_IntangibleLeaseAssetsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsAcquisitionCostsOrSaleProceeds" xlink:label="us-gaap_SignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsAcquisitionCostsOrSaleProceeds" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SignificantAcquisitionsAndDisposalsAcquisitionCostsOrSaleProceeds" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsPurchasedAsPartOfAcquisitionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfMinimumRentalPaymentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40309 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Summary Of Minimum Rental Payments) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAndLoansReceivablesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" xlink:label="mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContingentConsiderationTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MinimumRentalPaymentsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndLoansReceivableSummaryOfLoansDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40310 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Loans Receivable (Summary Of Loans) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain_634661186730420888" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain_634661186730420888" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OtherLoansMember" xlink:label="mpw_OtherLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_OtherLoansMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - Debt (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain_634661186730420888" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain_634661186730420888" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_634661186730420888" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_634661186730420888" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredDebtMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" xlink:label="mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParticipatingMortgageLoansMortgageObligationsAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParticipatingMortgageLoansMortgageObligationsAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParticipatingMortgageLoansMortgageObligationsAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityPeriodicPayment" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityPeriodicPayment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityPeriodicPayment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WriteOffOfDeferredDebtIssuanceCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_WriteOffOfDeferredDebtIssuanceCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WriteOffOfDeferredDebtIssuanceCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceInitialPublicOffering" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" xlink:label="mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtRevolvingCreditFacilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40402 - Disclosure - Debt (Revolving Credit Facilities) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CollateralizedRevolvingBankCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_CollateralizedRevolvingBankCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CollateralizedRevolvingBankCreditFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_UnsecuredRevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityDecreaseRepayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityDecreaseRepayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityDecreaseRepayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtSeniorUnsecuredNotesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40403 - Disclosure - Debt (Senior Unsecured Notes) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_634661186730576905" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_634661186730576905" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateContractOneMember" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateContractOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateContractOneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateContractTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateContractTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateContractTwoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNoteMaturityYear" xlink:label="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNoteMaturityYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNoteMaturityYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateDerivatives" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateDerivatives" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateDerivatives" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LineOfCreditFacilityCollateralAmount" xlink:label="mpw_LineOfCreditFacilityCollateralAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LineOfCreditFacilityCollateralAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtExchangeableSeniorNotesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40404 - Disclosure - Debt (Exchangeable Senior Notes) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SixPointOneTwentyFivePercentageExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotes" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionRatio" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PrincipalAmountOfExchangeableSeniorNotes" xlink:label="mpw_PrincipalAmountOfExchangeableSeniorNotes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PrincipalAmountOfExchangeableSeniorNotes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromNotesPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromNotesPayable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromNotesPayable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfProceedsFromOfferingToFundCashTenderOffer" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" xlink:label="mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AmountOfPrincipalAmountPlusAccruedInterestAndUnpaidInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtTermLoansAndCovenantsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40405 - Disclosure - Debt (Term Loans And Covenants) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NorthlandLtachHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_634661186730576905" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_634661186730576905" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TwoThousandAndTenTermLoanMember" xlink:label="mpw_TwoThousandAndTenTermLoanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TwoThousandAndTenTermLoanMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:label="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsAxis" xlink:to="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" xlink:label="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FederalFundsRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateFloorMember" xlink:label="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateFloorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_InterestRateOnDebtInstrumentsDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LondonInterbankOfferedRateFloorMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TermLoansMember" xlink:label="mpw_TermLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TermLoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" xlink:label="mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CollateralizedTermLoanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityLiabilitiesIncurred" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityLiabilitiesIncurred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityLiabilitiesIncurred" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BusinessAcquisitionAmortizationPeriod" xlink:label="mpw_BusinessAcquisitionAmortizationPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_BusinessAcquisitionAmortizationPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DividendRateAsPercentageOfNormalizedAdjustedFundsFromOperations" xlink:label="mpw_DividendRateAsPercentageOfNormalizedAdjustedFundsFromOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_DividendRateAsPercentageOfNormalizedAdjustedFundsFromOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FinalPercentageOfDividendRateAfterQuarterlyDeductions" xlink:label="mpw_FinalPercentageOfDividendRateAfterQuarterlyDeductions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_FinalPercentageOfDividendRateAfterQuarterlyDeductions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfMaintenanceOfUnencumberedAssetsOnBasisOfUnsecuredIndebtedness" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfMaintenanceOfUnencumberedAssetsOnBasisOfUnsecuredIndebtedness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfMaintenanceOfUnencumberedAssetsOnBasisOfUnsecuredIndebtedness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentTerms" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableInterestRate" xlink:label="mpw_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDebtSummaryOfDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40406 - Disclosure - Debt (Summary Of Debt) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TwoThousandElevenSeniorUnsecuredNotesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ExchangeableSeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TermLoansMember" xlink:label="mpw_TermLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TermLoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DebtInstrumentAmountNet" xlink:label="mpw_DebtInstrumentAmountNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_DebtInstrumentAmountNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMinimum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentageRateRangeMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateTerms" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateTerms" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateTerms" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareUnitCalculationOfEarningsPerShareUnitDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share/Unit (Calculation Of Earnings Per Share/Unit) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" xlink:label="mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MedicalPropertiesTrustIncMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_634661186730732922" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_634661186730732922" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockOptionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockOptionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockOptionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsAttributableToNoncontrollingEntity" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsAttributableToNoncontrollingEntity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsAttributableToNoncontrollingEntity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsAllocatedToParticipatingSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsAllocatedToParticipatingSecurities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsAllocatedToParticipatingSecurities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" xlink:label="mpw_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NetIncomeLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" xlink:label="mpw_NetIncomeLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NetIncomeLessParticipatingSecuritiesShareInEarnings" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureStockAwardsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40701 - Disclosure - Stock Awards (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageAxis" xlink:label="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageAxis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" xlink:label="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageAxis" xlink:to="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" xlink:label="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain_634661186730732922" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageAxis" xlink:to="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain_634661186730732922" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ThirtyPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_ThirtyPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ThirtyPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EighteenPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_EighteenPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" xlink:to="mpw_EighteenPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RemainingPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_RemainingPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementPerformanceAwardGrantsByPercentageDomain" xlink:to="mpw_RemainingPercentageOfTwoThousandElevenPerformanceAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TimeBasedAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ServiceBasedAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_ServiceBasedAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ServiceBasedAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SuperiorPerformanceAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_SuperiorPerformanceAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SuperiorPerformanceAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CorePerformanceAwardsMember" xlink:label="mpw_CorePerformanceAwardsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CorePerformanceAwardsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationDating" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationDating" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardExpirationDating" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfExercisableOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePrice1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeExercisableOptionsWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriodMinimum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardGrantInPeriod" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardGrantInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardGrantInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardToBeEarnedOfShareholderReturnReachesShareholderLimit" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardToBeEarnedOfShareholderReturnReachesShareholderLimit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfPerformanceAwardToBeEarnedOfShareholderReturnReachesShareholderLimit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnToBeEarned" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnToBeEarned" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnToBeEarned" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnually" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnually" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnually" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnuallyAchievingPeriod" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnuallyAchievingPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnAnnuallyAchievingPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnOnProratedBasis" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnOnProratedBasis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderReturnOnProratedBasis" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfShareholderAnnualMaximumTotalReturn" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderAnnualMaximumTotalReturn" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfShareholderAnnualMaximumTotalReturn" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWillEarnedIfWePerformAtOrAboveFiftiethPercentile" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWillEarnedIfWePerformAtOrAboveFiftiethPercentile" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWillEarnedIfWePerformAtOrAboveFiftiethPercentile" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWereDeemedForfeited" xlink:label="mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWereDeemedForfeited" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PercentageOfSuperiorPerformanceAwardsWereDeemedForfeited" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureStockAwardsRestrictedEquityAwardsActivityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40702 - Disclosure - Stock Awards (Restricted Equity Awards Activity) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VestingBasedOnServiceMember" xlink:label="mpw_VestingBasedOnServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VestingBasedOnServiceMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VestingBasedOnMarketPerformanceConditionsSharesMember" xlink:label="mpw_VestingBasedOnMarketPerformanceConditionsSharesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VestingBasedOnMarketPerformanceConditionsSharesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCommonStockPartnerSCapitalDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40901 - Disclosure - Common Stock/Partner's Capital (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_634661186730888939" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_634661186730888939" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PublicOfferingMember" xlink:label="mpw_PublicOfferingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="mpw_PublicOfferingMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MarketEquityOfferingProgramMember" xlink:label="mpw_MarketEquityOfferingProgramMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MarketEquityOfferingProgramMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PublicOfferingPriceForCommonStock" xlink:label="mpw_PublicOfferingPriceForCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PublicOfferingPriceForCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnderwritersPurchaseOfSharesToCoverOverAllotments" xlink:label="mpw_UnderwritersPurchaseOfSharesToCoverOverAllotments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_UnderwritersPurchaseOfSharesToCoverOverAllotments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AveragePriceOfCommonStockUnderMarketEquityOfferingProgram" xlink:label="mpw_AveragePriceOfCommonStockUnderMarketEquityOfferingProgram" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_AveragePriceOfCommonStockUnderMarketEquityOfferingProgram" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SalesCommission" xlink:label="mpw_SalesCommission" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_SalesCommission" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockOtherValueOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockOtherValueOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockOtherValueOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CommonStockAdditionalSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="mpw_CommonStockAdditionalSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CommonStockAdditionalSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfOtherPartners" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfOtherPartners" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfOtherPartners" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureFairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfFairValueInformationOfFinancialInstrumentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Summary Of Fair Value Information Of Financial Instruments) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_Loans" xlink:label="mpw_Loans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_Loans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestAndRentReceivableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivableFairValueDisclosure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivableFairValueDisclosure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansReceivableFairValueDisclosure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41101 - Disclosure - Discontinued Operations (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_634661186730888939" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_634661186730888939" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MountainviewRegionalRehabilitationHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ShermanOaksHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MontclairHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SharpstownHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_SharpstownHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SharpstownHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InglewoodHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_InglewoodHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="mpw_InglewoodHospitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperties" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfBedsSold" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfBedsSold" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfBedsSold" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" xlink:label="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_WriteOffRentReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureDiscontinuedOperationsScheduleOfDiscontinuedOperationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41102 - Disclosure - Discontinued Operations (Schedule Of Discontinued Operations) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureQuarterlyFinancialDataSummaryOfUnauditedQuarterlyFinancialInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41201 - Disclosure - Quarterly Financial Data (Summary Of The Unaudited Quarterly Financial Information) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" xlink:label="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MptOperatingPartnershipLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41301 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CommonStockOfferingMember" xlink:label="mpw_CommonStockOfferingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CommonStockOfferingMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_UnsecuredSeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CreditFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="mpw_CreditFacilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CreditFacilitiesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ErnestHealthIncMember" xlink:label="mpw_ErnestHealthIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ErnestHealthIncMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFortyNinePercentInterestMember" xlink:label="mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFortyNinePercentInterestMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFortyNinePercentInterestMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFiftyOnePercentInterestMember" xlink:label="mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFiftyOnePercentInterestMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CapitalContributionToAcquireFiftyOnePercentInterestMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityPurchasePrice" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateOtherAcquisitions" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateOtherAcquisitions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateOtherAcquisitions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfFirstMortgageLoan" xlink:label="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfFirstMortgageLoan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfFirstMortgageLoan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfAcquisitionLoan" xlink:label="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfAcquisitionLoan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentOfAcquisitionLoan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ClosureOfAcquisitionAndRelatedInvestments" xlink:label="mpw_ClosureOfAcquisitionAndRelatedInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_ClosureOfAcquisitionAndRelatedInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentInCapitalContribution" xlink:label="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentInCapitalContribution" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_PurchasePriceAndInvestmentInCapitalContribution" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeasePeriodInYears" xlink:label="mpw_LeasePeriodInYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeasePeriodInYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NumberOfFiveYearExtensionsInExcessOfLeasePeriod" xlink:label="mpw_NumberOfFiveYearExtensionsInExcessOfLeasePeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_NumberOfFiveYearExtensionsInExcessOfLeasePeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseAgreementInitialRentalRate" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseAgreementInitialRentalRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseAgreementInitialRentalRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexFloorRateMaximum" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexFloorRateMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexFloorRateMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexCeilingRateMaximum" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexCeilingRateMaximum" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseAgreementIncreaseInConsumerPriceIndexCeilingRateMaximum" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionInterestAcquired1" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionInterestAcquired1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionInterestAcquired1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearOne" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearOne" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearOne" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearTwo" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInThereafter" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInThereafter" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRatePayableInCashInThereafter" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearOne" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearOne" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearOne" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearTwo" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearThereafter" xlink:label="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearThereafter" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_CouponRateAccruedAndPaidUponOccurrenceOfAnyCapitalOrLiquidityEventsInYearThereafter" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SaleOfStockTransactionDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_SaleOfStockTransactionDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SaleOfStockTransactionDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SaleOfStockPursuantToExerciseOfUnderwritersOverAllotmentOption" xlink:label="mpw_SaleOfStockPursuantToExerciseOfUnderwritersOverAllotmentOption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_SaleOfStockPursuantToExerciseOfUnderwritersOverAllotmentOption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SaleOfStockPricePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_SaleOfStockPricePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SaleOfStockPricePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentIssuanceDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentIssuanceDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentIssuanceDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromUnsecuredNotesPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromUnsecuredNotesPayable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromUnsecuredNotesPayable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInitiationDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInitiationDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInitiationDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumAmountOutstandingDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumAmountOutstandingDuringPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="33" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumAmountOutstandingDuringPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="34" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="35" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="36" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" xlink:label="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LandBuildingsAndImprovementsAndIntangibleLeaseAssets" xlink:label="mpw_LandBuildingsAndImprovementsAndIntangibleLeaseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_LandBuildingsAndImprovementsAndIntangibleLeaseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateHeldforsale" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCommercialAndConsumerNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" xlink:label="mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_GrossInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="mpw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" xlink:label="mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_NetInvestmentInRealEstateAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_InterestAndRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRentReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_OtherLoans" xlink:label="mpw_OtherLoans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_OtherLoans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReceivableNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_InvestmentInSubsidiaries" xlink:label="mpw_InvestmentInSubsidiaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_InvestmentInSubsidiaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="mpw_RealEstateAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" xlink:label="mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_LeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41402 - Disclosure - Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" xlink:label="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RentBilled" xlink:label="mpw_RentBilled" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RentBilled" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_StraightLineRent" xlink:label="mpw_StraightLineRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_StraightLineRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansCommercialRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DirectCostsOfLeasedAndRentedPropertyOrEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseIncludingAcquisitions" xlink:label="mpw_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseIncludingAcquisitions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseIncludingAcquisitions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" xlink:label="mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_DebtRefinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EquityInEarningsOfConsolidatedSubsidiariesNetOfIncomeTaxes" xlink:label="mpw_EquityInEarningsOfConsolidatedSubsidiariesNetOfIncomeTaxes" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="mpw_EquityInEarningsOfConsolidatedSubsidiariesNetOfIncomeTaxes" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureCondensedConsolidatingFinancialInformationCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41403 - Disclosure - Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2011/dei-2011-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" xlink:label="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SubsidiaryIssuersMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromInvestments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromInvestments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PaymentsForConstructionInProcessAndOther" xlink:label="mpw_PaymentsForConstructionInProcessAndOther" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_PaymentsForConstructionInProcessAndOther" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" xlink:label="mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_RevolvingCreditFacilitiesNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfOrdinaryDividends" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" xlink:label="mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_ProceedsFromLeaseDepositsAndOtherObligationsToTenants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ProceedsFromDebtIssuanceCostsPaidAndOtherFinancingActivities" xlink:label="mpw_ProceedsFromDebtIssuanceCostsPaidAndOtherFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="mpw_ProceedsFromDebtIssuanceCostsPaidAndOtherFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureValuationAndQualifyingAccountsScheduleOfValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41501 - Disclosure - Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Schedule Of Valuation And Qualifying Accounts) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_634661186731200973" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain_634661186731200973" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MonroePropertyMember" xlink:label="mpw_MonroePropertyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" xlink:to="mpw_MonroePropertyMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" xlink:label="mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToOtherAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToOtherAccounts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToOtherAccounts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesRecoveries" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesRecoveries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesRecoveries" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesPeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesPeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredRent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredRent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredRent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredInterest" xlink:label="mpw_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsDeferredInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsReserves" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsReserves" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ValuationAndQualifyingAccountsDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsReserves" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationScheduleOfRealEstateInvestmentsAndAccumulatedDepreciationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41601 - Disclosure - Real Estate And Accumulated Depreciation (Schedule Of Real Estate Investments And Accumulated Depreciation) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationByPropertyTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationByPropertyTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationByPropertyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain_634661186731356990" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain_634661186731356990" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ThorntonColoradoMember" xlink:label="mpw_ThorntonColoradoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ThorntonColoradoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NewBedfordMassachusettsMember" xlink:label="mpw_NewBedfordMassachusettsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NewBedfordMassachusettsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CovingtonLosAngelesMember" xlink:label="mpw_CovingtonLosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CovingtonLosAngelesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" xlink:label="mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DenhamSpringsLosAngelesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReddingCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_ReddingCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ReddingCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BloomingtonIndianaMember" xlink:label="mpw_BloomingtonIndianaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BloomingtonIndianaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DallasTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_DallasTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DallasTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HuntingtonBeachCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_HuntingtonBeachCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HuntingtonBeachCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LaPalmaCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_LaPalmaCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LaPalmaCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AnaheimCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_AnaheimCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AnaheimCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_LulingTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_LulingTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_LulingTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SanAntonioTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_SanAntonioTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SanAntonioTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_VictoriaTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_VictoriaTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_VictoriaTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HoustonTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_HoustonTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HoustonTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BensalemPennsylvaniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_BensalemPennsylvaniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BensalemPennsylvaniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PortlandOregonMember" xlink:label="mpw_PortlandOregonMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_PortlandOregonMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ReddingCaliforniaTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_ReddingCaliforniaTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ReddingCaliforniaTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HoustonTexasTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_HoustonTexasTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HoustonTexasTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BennettsvilleSouthCarolinaMember" xlink:label="mpw_BennettsvilleSouthCarolinaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BennettsvilleSouthCarolinaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BossierCityLosAngelesMember" xlink:label="mpw_BossierCityLosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BossierCityLosAngelesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BristolConnecticutMember" xlink:label="mpw_BristolConnecticutMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BristolConnecticutMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CherawSouthCarolinaMember" xlink:label="mpw_CherawSouthCarolinaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CherawSouthCarolinaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DetroitMichiganMember" xlink:label="mpw_DetroitMichiganMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DetroitMichiganMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EnfieldConnecticutMember" xlink:label="mpw_EnfieldConnecticutMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_EnfieldConnecticutMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FayettevilleArkansasMember" xlink:label="mpw_FayettevilleArkansasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FayettevilleArkansasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_FortLauderdaleFloridaMember" xlink:label="mpw_FortLauderdaleFloridaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_FortLauderdaleFloridaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_GardenGroveCaliforniaTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_IdahoFallsIdahoMember" xlink:label="mpw_IdahoFallsIdahoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_IdahoFallsIdahoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NewingtonConnecticutMember" xlink:label="mpw_NewingtonConnecticutMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NewingtonConnecticutMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PetersburgVirginiaMember" xlink:label="mpw_PetersburgVirginiaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_PetersburgVirginiaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WestValleyCityUtahMember" xlink:label="mpw_WestValleyCityUtahMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="33" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WestValleyCityUtahMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_PoplarBluffMissouriMember" xlink:label="mpw_PoplarBluffMissouriMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="34" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_PoplarBluffMissouriMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_EastProvidenceRhodeIslandMember" xlink:label="mpw_EastProvidenceRhodeIslandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="35" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_EastProvidenceRhodeIslandMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaMember" xlink:label="mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="36" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="37" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SanDimasCaliforniaTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WestSpringfieldMassachusettsMember" xlink:label="mpw_WestSpringfieldMassachusettsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="38" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WestSpringfieldMassachusettsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TucsonArizonaMember" xlink:label="mpw_TucsonArizonaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="39" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TucsonArizonaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WarwickRhodeIslandMember" xlink:label="mpw_WarwickRhodeIslandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="40" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WarwickRhodeIslandMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WebsterTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_WebsterTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="41" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WebsterTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WichitaKansasMember" xlink:label="mpw_WichitaKansasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="42" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WichitaKansasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_AddisonTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_AddisonTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="43" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_AddisonTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ShenandoahTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_ShenandoahTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="44" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ShenandoahTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_RichardsonTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_RichardsonTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="45" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_RichardsonTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HillCountyTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_HillCountyTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="46" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HillCountyTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_WebsterTexasTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_WebsterTexasTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="47" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_WebsterTexasTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_TomballTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_TomballTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="48" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_TomballTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_GilbertArizonaMember" xlink:label="mpw_GilbertArizonaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="49" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_GilbertArizonaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_CorinthTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_CorinthTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="50" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_CorinthTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_BayonneNewJerseyMember" xlink:label="mpw_BayonneNewJerseyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="51" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_BayonneNewJerseyMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="52" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_SanDiegoCaliforniaTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NorthlandMissouriMember" xlink:label="mpw_NorthlandMissouriMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="53" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NorthlandMissouriMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DesotoTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_DesotoTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="54" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DesotoTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_NewBraunfelsTexasMember" xlink:label="mpw_NewBraunfelsTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="55" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_NewBraunfelsTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_HobokenNewJerseyMember" xlink:label="mpw_HobokenNewJerseyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="56" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationNameOfPropertyDomain" xlink:to="mpw_HobokenNewJerseyMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationByPropertyTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfProperty" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfProperty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfProperty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLandAndBuildingsAndImprovements" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLandAndBuildingsAndImprovements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLandAndBuildingsAndImprovements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAccumulatedDepreciation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateOfConstruction" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateOfConstruction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateOfConstruction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDateAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLifeUsedForDepreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLifeUsedForDepreciation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationLifeUsedForDepreciation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://medicalpropertiestrust.com/role/DisclosureMortgageLoanOnRealEstateScheduleOfMortgageLoanOnRealEstateDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41701 - Disclosure - Mortgage Loan On Real Estate (Schedule Of Mortgage Loan On Real Estate) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateScheduleTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateScheduleTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateScheduleTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain_634661186733385211" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionLoanCategoryAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain_634661186733385211" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FirstMortgageMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FirstMortgageMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanCategoryDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FirstMortgageMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateScheduleTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain_634661186733385211" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain_634661186733385211" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DesertValleyHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_DesertValleyHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DesertValleyHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_DesertValleyHospitalTwoMember" xlink:label="mpw_DesertValleyHospitalTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_DesertValleyHospitalTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ChinoValleyMedicalCenterMember" xlink:label="mpw_ChinoValleyMedicalCenterMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ChinoValleyMedicalCenterMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_ParadiseValleyHospitalMember" xlink:label="mpw_ParadiseValleyHospitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNamePropertyTypeDomain" xlink:to="mpw_ParadiseValleyHospitalMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateScheduleTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="mpw-20111231.xsd#mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="mpw_MortgageLoanOnRealEstateFinalMaturityDateYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePriorLiens" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePriorLiens" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePriorLiens" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFaceAmountOfMortgages" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFaceAmountOfMortgages" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFaceAmountOfMortgages" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCarryingAmountOfMortgages" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCarryingAmountOfMortgages" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateCarryingAmountOfMortgages" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePrincipalAmountOfDelinquentLoans" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePrincipalAmountOfDelinquentLoans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstatePrincipalAmountOfDelinquentLoans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2011/elts/us-gaap-2011-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFederalIncomeTaxBasis" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFederalIncomeTaxBasis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFederalIncomeTaxBasis" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
