St. John's Co-Cathedral, Malta Travel Guide

The St. John's Co-Cathedral is more than just a church; it's a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture. Constructed between 1572 and 1577 by the Knights of St. John, this cathedral was designed to be a symbol of the Order's strength and piety. Its austere exterior contrasts dramatically with an interior that dazzles with ornate marble, gold leaf, and intricate paintings.

One of the most mind-blowing tales is the presence of the iconic painting 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist' by Caravaggio. This masterpiece is the only work signed by the artist and can be found in the cathedral's oratory. Legend has it that Caravaggio fled to Malta to escape criminal charges, and in gratitude for sanctuary, painted this dramatic work.

The cathedral is also a resting place for many of the Knights of St. John. Intricately carved marble tombstones adorn the floor, each telling a story of valor and devotion. The stories interwoven in the stones invite visitors to walk over history, literally and figuratively.

Visiting The St. John's Co-Cathedral is like stepping into a living museum that chronicles the island's rich history. It's a destination that promises awe and inspiration at every turn, making it an essential stop for any traveler exploring Valletta.

Nestled in the heart of Valletta, The St. John's Co-Cathedral is a testament to the grand artistry of the Baroque era. One of its most unique features is the magnificent marble floor, which is a tapestry of inlaid tombstones commemorating the Knights of St. John. Each stone, beautifully decorated and crafted, tells the story of these valiant knights, making the floor not just a visual spectacle but a historical archive.

The cathedral's interior is a rich canvas of vibrant colors and intricate designs. The ceilings are adorned with mesmerizing frescoes by artist Mattia Preti, depicting scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist. These frescoes are remarkable not only for their vivid detailing but also for the way they seemingly bring the stories to life, captivating every visitor's imagination.

Another outstanding feature is the Oratory, home to one of the most celebrated paintings in the world, Caravaggio's "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." This masterpiece is unique for its dramatic use of light and shadow, a hallmark of Caravaggio's style, making the Oratory a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Every corner of The St. John's Co-Cathedral is an invitation to marvel at the intersection of art, history, and spirituality.

The St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, renowned for its opulent interior and artistic treasures. One captivating fact is that the cathedral's floor is a mesmerizing tapestry of over 375 marble tombstones, each uniquely inlaid with intricate designs and heraldry of the Knights of Malta. This mosaic-like floor serves as an eternal resting place for these noble warriors, making it a walkable chronicle of history.

Another intriguing detail is the presence of Caravaggio's largest and only signed masterpiece, "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist," housed within the Oratory. This dramatic painting, commissioned by the Knights, captures the powerful narrative of faith and mortality and remains one of the cathedral's most celebrated attractions. Finally, the cathedral is home to a remarkable collection of Flemish tapestries, which depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, adding to the visual splendor and cultural richness of this sacred space.

Discover St. John's Co-Cathedral, a prime feature of Valletta, in the vibrant Valletta. St. John's Co-Cathedral is situated at Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta, just a short distance from National Museum of Archaeology and Palace Armoury, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of St. John's Co-Cathedral, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Valletta, a city in Malta rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Valletta travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to go to St. John's Co-Cathedral is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. From March to May and September to November, visitors can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. This allows for a more serene exploration of the cathedral's Baroque architecture and stunning Caravaggio paintings.

Summer, while popular due to the bustling activity in Valletta, can get quite hot. However, attending the annual Valletta International Baroque Festival in January offers a unique opportunity to witness special events and concerts within the cathedral's historic walls.

For those seeking tranquility, visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can provide a peaceful experience, avoiding peak tourist hours. These timeframes usually allow for unobstructed views of the intricate artistry and awe-inspiring interiors.

Explore our extended guide on the best time to visit St. John's Co-Cathedral for more inspiration on things to do in every season.

St. John's Co-Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Valletta, Malta. If you're flying in, Malta International Airport is approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach St. John's Co-Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Valletta, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach St. John's Co-Cathedral, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at St. John's Co-Cathedral!

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore St. John's Co-Cathedral, perfectly planned travel packages to Valletta make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Valletta, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring St. John's Co-Cathedral.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church in Malta.

Upon arriving at Malta International Airport, you’ll find 1 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Valletta.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Valletta.

Choosing the right accommodation near St. John's Co-Cathedral from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Valletta can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from St. John's Co-Cathedral, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond St. John's Co-Cathedral, Valletta boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Valletta offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Valletta is Upper Barrakka, located at 292 Triq Sant' Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Triton Fountain is worth seeing when you're in Valletta. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at VGW5+783, Vjal Nelson, Il-Furjana, Malta.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to City Gate completes any trip to Valletta. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Republic St, Valletta, Malta, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Valletta below to discover even more incredible places to explore.