St. John's Co-Cathedral, Central Region Travel Guide

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Discover Baroque splendor in Valletta's iconic St. John's Co-Cathedral, a historical masterpiece adorned with art by Preti and Caravaggio.

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St. John's Co-Cathedral

St. John's Co-Cathedral, built in the late 16th century by the Knights of St. John, stands as a prominent landmark in Valletta, Malta. Its initially austere exterior gives way to a breathtaking Baroque interior adorned with intricate carvings, gilded details, and masterpieces by Mattia Preti and Caravaggio, reflecting the Order's rich history and artistic patronage.

A brief summary to St. John's Co-Cathedral

Triq San Gwann, Valletta, MT
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Monday 9 am-4:15 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:15 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:15 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:15 pm
Friday 9 am-4:15 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:15 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. John's Co-Cathedral.

Dress respectfully when visiting; shawls are available at the entrance, and stiletto heels are not permitted to protect the marble floor.
Purchase tickets online at least 24 hours in advance or at the door for same-day admission.
An audio-visual guide is included with the entrance fee, offering insights into the cathedral's history and art in multiple languages.
Photography is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited.

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Explore St. John's Co-Cathedral on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

St. John's Co-Cathedral is centrally located on Triq San Gwann in Valletta and is easily accessible on foot from most points within the city. From City Gate, walk straight along Triq Repubblika, then turn left onto Triq San Gwann. The cathedral will be on your left. Walking within Valletta is generally free, but be prepared for some uphill slopes.
Public Transport

Valletta is the central terminus for buses throughout Malta. From the main bus terminal just outside City Gate, walk through the gate and straight along Triq Repubblika, then turn left onto Triq San Gwann. The cathedral will be on your left. A single bus journey costs €2.00.
Taxi

Taxis are available throughout Malta and can drop you off near City Gate in Valletta. From there, walk straight along Triq Repubblika, then turn left onto Triq San Gwann. The cathedral will be on your left. A short taxi ride within Valletta should cost approximately €10-€15.

Discover more about St. John's Co-Cathedral

St. John's Co-Cathedral, located in the heart of Valletta, is a testament to the power and artistic vision of the Knights of St. John. Commissioned in 1572 by Grand Master Jean de la Cassière, the cathedral served as the conventual church of the Order, a place for communal worship and a symbol of their influence. Designed by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar, the exterior presents a Mannerist facade, intentionally austere in contrast to the opulent interior.Stepping inside reveals a world of high Baroque decoration, largely the work of Calabrian artist Mattia Preti. Every surface is adorned with intricate carved stone walls, and the vaulted ceiling showcases Preti's paintings depicting scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist. The artist's masterful use of light and shadow creates the illusion of three-dimensional statues, adding to the grandeur of the space. The cathedral also houses significant works by Caravaggio, including a massive painting of John the Baptist.The floor is an elaborate display of inlaid marble tombstones, each commemorating Knights and officials of the Order of St. John. These tombs, along with the nine naves dedicated to the patron saints of the eight Langues (divisions) of the Knights, contribute to the cathedral's unique character and historical significance. Over the centuries, each Langue embellished their respective naves, showcasing the artistic styles and wealth of their members.St. John's Co-Cathedral was elevated to equal status with St. Paul's Cathedral in Mdina in 1816, hence the term 'co-cathedral'. Today, it stands as one of Malta's most important historical and artistic landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's rich past and the legacy of the Knights of St. John.