St. John's Co-Cathedral | Valletta

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most significant and breathtaking landmarks in Valletta, Malta’s capital city. A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, this cathedral stands out for its lavish interior, its historical significance, and its role as one of the most important religious buildings on the island.

Historical Background

Construction and Purpose: St. John’s Co-Cathedral was built between 1573 and 1578 by the Knights of St. John, a military order that ruled Malta for several centuries. The cathedral was designed to be a place of worship for the Knights, and it was intended to reflect their power, prestige, and religious devotion. The church was dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of the Knights of St. John.

Co-Cathedral Status: Though the cathedral is located in the heart of Valletta, it is known as a "co-cathedral" because it shares the title of the principal cathedral of Malta with the Cathedral of the Assumption in Mdina. This dual status is a unique feature in the history of Maltese religious architecture.

Role in the Knights’ Legacy: The cathedral holds great historical importance as the spiritual and ceremonial center for the Knights of St. John. The Knights’ various Grand Masters were buried within the cathedral, and it played a central role in their official ceremonies, including the election of new Grand Masters.

Architectural Features

Exterior: St. John’s Co-Cathedral may seem somewhat unassuming from the outside, especially compared to other Baroque churches in Europe, with its simple, almost austere façade. The exterior is largely characterized by its classical design, with an entrance flanked by two towers. This contrast in simplicity to the lavish interior is a hallmark of Baroque style, emphasizing the focus on interior spectacle.

Interior: Once you step inside, however, you are immediately overwhelmed by the extravagant Baroque decoration. The interior is often regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque art and architecture in the world, designed to evoke awe and devotion.

Flooring: One of the most remarkable features of the interior is the marble floor, which is entirely composed of inlaid tombstones. These tombstones mark the burial sites of many knights who served in Malta, and each one is intricately designed, showcasing a unique blend of artistry and commemorative reverence. There are more than 350 knights' tombs embedded in the floor, making it both a sacred and artistic space.

Vaulted Ceiling: The ceiling of St. John’s is decorated with frescoes painted by the famous Italian artist Mattia Preti. These frescoes illustrate scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist, including his beheading and various moments from his life. The ceiling’s intricate design and vivid colors contribute significantly to the Baroque atmosphere.

The Main Altar: At the high altar stands an impressive gold-leafed altar featuring intricate carvings and religious symbols. The altar is a focal point for worship and reflection, embodying the wealth and piety of the Knights of St. John.

Chapels: St. John’s Co-Cathedral has several chapels, each dedicated to a different patron saint or figure important to the Knights of St. John. The Chapel of St. George, for example, is the chapel of the English Langue (one of the divisions of the Knights) and houses a striking altarpiece of St. George. The Chapel of the Langue of Italy is similarly richly decorated, reflecting the importance of the Italian knights.

Notable Artworks

Caravaggio’s ‘The Beheading of St. John the Baptist’: Perhaps the most famous feature of St. John’s Co-Cathedral is the presence of Caravaggio’s masterpiece. This painting, ‘The Beheading of St. John the Baptist’, was commissioned by the Knights and is considered one of the artist’s greatest works. It depicts the dramatic and violent scene of St. John’s beheading with Caravaggio’s signature realism, vivid color, and intense emotion. The work’s placement in the cathedral underscores its importance as both a religious and artistic symbol for the Knights.

Other Artworks: In addition to Caravaggio’s work, the cathedral contains numerous paintings and sculptures by various Baroque masters, many of them commissioned by the Knights of St. John. These works cover biblical scenes, knights' allegories, and other religious themes that emphasize the Catholic faith and the martial heritage of the Knights.

Cultural and Religious Importance

National Significance: St. John’s Co-Cathedral holds profound significance in the history and culture of Malta. It serves as the central place of worship for the Maltese people and is one of the country’s most visited tourist destinations. The cathedral is also part of the World Heritage Site of Valletta, recognized by UNESCO for its historical and architectural value.

Religious Ceremonies: Though no longer the seat of the Grand Master, St. John’s Co-Cathedral continues to be an active religious site. It hosts regular Masses and religious services, particularly on special feast days such as the Feast of St. John the Baptist (June 24) and the Feast of the Assumption (August 15), when special processions and ceremonies take place.

Tourism: St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Valletta, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to admire its artistic masterpieces, explore the history of the Knights of St. John, and experience the grandeur of Baroque architecture. The cathedral is also home to the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Museum, which displays historical artifacts, vestments, and other items of significance to the Knights.

Visitor Information

Location: St. John’s Co-Cathedral is centrally located in Valletta, at St. John Street. It’s easily accessible from other key sites within the city, making it a must-see destination while exploring Valletta’s rich history.

Opening Hours: The cathedral is typically open to visitors daily, with specific hours for religious services. Visitors are encouraged to check the opening times in advance, especially during religious festivals or public holidays.

Entry Fee: There is an entry fee to visit the cathedral, which helps with the maintenance and preservation of the building. The fee includes an audio guide to help visitors understand the cathedral’s rich history, artwork, and religious significance.

Dress Code: As St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a place of worship, visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral stands as a remarkable example of Baroque art and architecture, a testament to the grandeur and piety of the Knights of St. John. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply looking to experience one of the most significant religious and cultural landmarks in Malta, St. John’s Co-Cathedral offers a captivating and awe-inspiring experience.