St John's Co-Cathedral Valletta Malta: Complete Interior Guide

# St John's Co-Cathedral Valletta: What to See Inside Malta's Baroque Masterpiece

St John's Co-Cathedral stands as one of the most magnificent religious buildings in the Mediterranean and represents a true highlight of any Malta visit. Located in the heart of Valletta, Malta's capital, this spectacular baroque church houses some of Europe's finest artistic treasures and offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Malta's rich cultural heritage.

The Grand Entrance and Nave

As you step inside St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, you'll immediately be struck by the overwhelming opulence of the interior. The main nave stretches before you with soaring ceilings decorated in vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St John the Baptist. The floor beneath your feet in this Malta landmark is equally impressive—an intricate marble floor featuring the coats of arms of Grand Masters who ruled Malta during the Knights Hospitaller period.

The entrance hall itself features a stunning wooden door and ornate stone archways that showcase the architectural mastery evident throughout this Malta cathedral. Every detail from floor to ceiling demonstrates why St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta remains one of Malta's most visited attractions.

The Caravaggio Masterpieces

One of the primary reasons visitors flock to St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta is to witness the two extraordinary paintings by Caravaggio, one of history's greatest artists. These Malta treasures include:

The Beheading of St John the Baptist

This monumental canvas is considered one of Caravaggio's finest works and hangs in the Oratory of St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta. The painting depicts the dramatic moment of St John's execution with Caravaggio's characteristic use of light and shadow. The composition draws your eye through the scene with masterful technique, making this a must-see artwork during any Malta cultural visit.

St Jerome Writing

Located in the cathedral's interior, this second Caravaggio work showcases the artist's genius for capturing intimate spiritual moments. Visitors to St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta should take time to stand before this painting and appreciate its extraordinary detail and emotional depth.

Both paintings represent invaluable cultural assets for Malta and demonstrate why Valletta, Malta's historic capital, attracts art lovers from around the world.

The Ornate Chapels of Malta's Cathedral

St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta contains multiple chapels, each a masterpiece in its own right:

The Chapel of Italy

This chapel within St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta features stunning artwork and marble decorations. The chapel reflects the close historical ties between the Knights Hospitaller and Italian states during Malta's medieval period.

The Chapel of Auvergne

Another significant chapel within this Malta cathedral, the Chapel of Auvergne showcases baroque artistry and houses important religious relics. The chapel's decorations reflect the French heritage of the Knights who once ruled Malta.

The Chapel of Spain

Located within St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, this chapel demonstrates Spanish artistic influence and religious devotion during the Knights' era in Malta.

The Chapel of the Holy Sacrament

This deeply significant chapel in Valletta, Malta features an exceptional altar piece and marble work that exemplifies the cathedral's baroque grandeur.

Architectural and Decorative Elements

Beyond the famous paintings, St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta contains numerous architectural features worth studying:

• The Ceiling Frescoes: Painted by Mattia Preti, these vibrant scenes covering the cathedral's vault are among the largest single artwork projects ever completed in Malta
• The Marble Work: Intricate marble columns, flooring, and wall panels showcase craftsmanship from throughout Malta's history
• The Organ: A magnificent baroque pipe organ that remains functional and occasionally used for concerts in Valletta, Malta
• The High Altar: An ornate structure featuring precious materials and religious iconography central to St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta

The Museum Section

St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta includes a dedicated museum section displaying:

• Tapestries from various periods in Malta's history
• Religious vestments worn by Grand Masters who ruled Malta
• Historic documents related to the Cathedral and Knights Hospitaller in Malta
• Additional paintings and sculptural works housed within this Malta museum

The museum section provides crucial context for understanding the artwork and historical significance of St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta.

Visiting Information for Valletta, Malta

Getting There

St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta is easily accessible by public transportation. Buses throughout Malta direct to Valletta regularly, with most routes costing €1.50 for a single journey. Once in Valletta, Malta, the cathedral sits in the heart of the city and is walking distance from most tourist areas.

Hours and Admission

Visitors planning a trip to St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta should check current opening hours before visiting, as times may vary seasonally. Admission fees are modest and support the cathedral's ongoing preservation in Valletta, Malta.

Practical Tips for Visiting Valletta, Malta

• Dress Code: Modest dress is required when visiting St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta. Covered shoulders and knees are expected
• Photography: Interior photography policies may be restricted in certain areas of St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta
• Duration: Plan for 1-2 hours to properly explore St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta

Nearby Attractions in Valletta, Malta

After visiting St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, explore other cultural sites:

• The Upper Barrakka Gardens overlooking the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta
• The Grand Master's Palace, another architectural gem in Valletta, Malta
• Fort St. Elmo museum in Valletta, Malta
• The traditional streets and markets of Valletta, Malta's historic center

Dining Near St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta

After your cultural exploration at St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, enjoy authentic Maltese cuisine:

• Noni serves contemporary Maltese dishes with quality ingredients
• Cafe Cordina offers traditional snacks and light meals in Valletta, Malta
• Rubino provides classic Maltese fare in the heart of Valletta, Malta

Conclusion

St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta represents far more than a religious building—it's a treasury of artistic masterpieces, architectural brilliance, and Malta's cultural pride. The combination of Caravaggio's genius, baroque decoration, historical significance, and Malta's maritime heritage makes St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta an essential destination for anyone visiting Malta. Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or casual traveler, this Malta cathedral offers profound insights into the islands' fascinating past and continues to inspire all who enter its magnificent doors in Valletta, Malta.