St. John's Co-Cathedral travel guide

St John's Co-Cathedral is a gem of Baroque art and architecture. It was built between 1572 and 1577 by the Knights of the Order of St John, as the Conventual Church of the Order.

The Knights, also known as Knights Hospitallers, were a Christian military order that operated a hospital in Jerusalem during the Crusades. When they were driven out of the Holy Land, they were given Malta as their new home by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in 1530.

The cathedral was designed by the Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar, who was the order's official architect. The interior was largely decorated by the Calabrian artist Mattia Preti, who was responsible for the breathtaking scenes from the life of John the Baptist on the vault.

In the late 18th century, Napoleon Bonaparte captured Malta and the cathedral was desecrated. However, it was later restored and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting thousands of visitors each year with its rich history and magnificent art.

The first unique feature of St John's Co-Cathedral is its Baroque architecture. While the exterior is modest and unassuming, the interior is a breath-taking display of high Baroque art, with every inch adorned with lavish decorations, intricate carvings, and gold leaf. The cathedral houses eight chapels, each dedicated to the patron saint of the eight 'Langues' of the Knights Hospitaller.

Another distinctive feature is its marvellous floor, a mosaic of 400 tombstones made of inlaid marble. These tombstones cover the graves of knights and officers of the Order, serving as a final accolade to their service.

Lastly, the cathedral is home to one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.' It is the largest painting he ever made and the only one he signed. This masterpiece, located in the Oratory, is a testament to the cathedral's significant cultural and historical value.

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.

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!

The best time to explore St John's Co-Cathedral is during the spring season from March to May, and the autumn season from September to November. These periods offer ideal weather conditions, with temperatures that are not too hot, allowing for a comfortable exploration of the cathedral. The summer months can be crowded with tourists, so visiting in spring or autumn provides a chance to avoid larger crowds and experience the cathedral in a more peaceful setting. Additionally, during the festive season of Easter (usually in April), the cathedral hosts special religious events that can offer a unique insight into local culture and traditions. Remember, the cathedral is closed on Sundays, public holidays and during special religious events, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. In terms of day timing, it is recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun illuminates the cathedral's magnificent interiors, creating a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.

To truly enjoy your visit to St. John's Co-Cathedral, joining a guided tour of this renowned church in Valletta is highly recommended. As one of Malta's most iconic attractions, St. John's Co-Cathedral draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Valletta, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to St. John's Co-Cathedral starting at just 18 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

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 2 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.