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.

Located in Valletta, the iconic St. John's Co-Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Valletta or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Malta.

Valletta is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Valletta offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triton Fountain, Valletta City Gate, Lower Barrakka Gardens, and National War Museum - Fort St Elmo.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Valletta has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Valletta - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Malta!

St. John's Co-Cathedral is located in Valletta, Malta, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Malta International Airport is approximately 3.39 miles (5.46 km) away from Valletta. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where St. John's Co-Cathedral is located.

If you’re already in Valletta, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the cathedral. The exact address of the attraction is Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta, Malta.

You can also rent a car and drive to St. John's Co-Cathedral. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore St. John's Co-Cathedral and other top attractions in Valletta at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set 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.

No visit to Valletta is complete without a trip to St. John's Co-Cathedral, one of the most iconic attractions in Malta drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique cathedral, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to St. John's Co-Cathedral starting from 7 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Valletta and top attractions like St. John's Co-Cathedral with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore St. John's Co-Cathedral and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Valletta, Malta, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind cathedral in Malta.

Discovering Malta's captivating landscapes and the iconic St. John's Co-Cathedral becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 15 reputable rental car companies near Malta International Airport and the city of Valletta, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Malta's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Valletta and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, SurPrice Car Rentals currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 7.34 EUR per day or 51.39 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Surprice Car Rentals, 240 Triq Il-Gdida, 4000 in Valletta, this rental option ensures you can explore Malta's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Valletta by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning St. John's Co-Cathedral just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Valletta.

Discover the best hotels for visiting St. John's Co-Cathedral below.

Valletta offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Valletta, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triton Fountain, and Valletta City Gate.

Upper Barrakka Gardens is a bucket-list garden and top attraction in Valletta, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 27,128 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Upper Barrakka Gardens is 292 Triq Sant' Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta.

Another appreciated attraction in Valletta is Triton Fountain. This is just like Upper Barrakka Gardens, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 17,063 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this fountain is VGW5+783, Vjal Nelson, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta.

Valletta City Gate is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Valletta. This city gate and top attraction in Valletta has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,623 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Valletta City Gate creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Republic St, Valletta, Malta.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Valletta below.