Explore St. Johnʼs Co- Cathedral in Valletta

Discover the Baroque Splendor of St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta

St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is an exceptional Baroque gem that captures the grandeur of the Knights of St. John (Knights of Malta). As one of Malta’s top historical attractions, the cathedral’s austere façade contrasts magnificently with the opulent interior, featuring remarkable art treasures including two masterpieces by Caravaggio.

A Must-See Attraction in Valletta

Constructed by the Knights of Malta after their triumph over the Ottomans during the Great Siege, St. John’s Co-Cathedral took almost six years to build. It became the Knights’ primary conventual church when they moved to Valletta, replacing the Church of St. Lawrence in Birgu, and Valletta was established as Malta’s capital.

The cathedral showcases a central nave and eight side chapels, each representing different languages of the Order, including Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy, Aragon (Navarre), England (with Scotland and Ireland), Germany, and Castile (with Portugal). Each chapel is adorned with distinctive motifs and symbols. The meticulous Baroque decoration and gilded walls are unparalleled in Malta.

One of the cathedral’s most striking features is its marble floor, which is made up of 400 tombstones of knights and officers, each bearing coats of arms and epitaphs. The oldest tombstone dates back to 1606.

The St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum

Adjacent to the cathedral, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Museum is currently undergoing renovations to expand and enhance its collection. When it reopens, visitors will be able to explore Flemish tapestries designed by Peter Paul Rubens, liturgical vestments, illuminated prayer and choir books (antiphonaries), sacred objects, and paintings previously displayed in the side chapels.

Visiting Hours and Tips

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is open Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. To avoid crowds, particularly those from cruise ships, it is best to arrive early.

CARAVAGGIO , KNIGHT OF OBEDIENCE IN THE SERVICE OF THE ORDER OF MALTA

Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, born in 1571, arrived in Malta in 1607 and spent over a year there before being imprisoned in Fort St. Angelo and fleeing to Sicily. During his time in Valletta, Caravaggio created “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” and “Saint Jerome Writing,” both housed in St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

Caravaggio also painted “Sleeping Cupid” and “Portrait of a Knight of Malta” (Fra’ Antonio Martelli), now displayed at the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, and “Portrait of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt with a Page,” exhibited at the Louvre in Paris. “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” depicts the dramatic moment of execution, set in the courtyard of the Grand Master’s Palace.

Explore Valletta After Your Visit

Valletta, often described as an open-air museum, offers a range of attractions beyond the co-cathedral. Enjoy a meal at Luciano’s on the first floor for Italian cuisine or the Aki restaurant for Japanese-inspired dishes. Explore beyond the touristy Republic Street and Merchant Street for a variety of top-quality dining options.

Getting there

Valletta is conveniently accessible from The Snop House. We recommend using the efficient ferry service for a scenic and quick trip across the Grand Harbour, leading you directly to the co-cathedral.