St. John's Co-Cathedral
A breathtaking Baroque masterpiece, St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta boasts opulent interiors, gilded walls, and Caravaggio's dramatic art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
St. John's Co-Cathedral
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Baroque masterpiece, St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta boasts opulent interiors, gilded walls, and Caravaggio's dramatic art.
"Absolutely insane, never seen anything like this before. Anywhere you look you see something unique."
🎟️ Book tickets online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
⛪ Modest dress code
Ensure shoulders and knees are covered, or use provided wraps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Caravaggio's Masterpieces
Oratory
Witness Caravaggio's dramatic and powerful paintings, including 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist'.
The Marble Floor Tombs
Main Nave
Marvel at the intricate marble floor, a stunning testament to the Knights' legacy, with each slab marking a tomb.
Baroque Interior Opulence
Main Sanctuary
Be awestruck by the gilded walls, ornate chapels, and breathtaking frescoes that define its lavish Baroque style.
Clock Tower Views
Clock Tower
Climb the narrow stairs for priceless panoramic views of Valletta and hear the clock mechanism in motion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online to Skip Queues
Dress Modestly or Use Provided Covers
Best Times
Insider Tips
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The Floor of St, John's Co-Cathedral - Valletta, Malta
🎟️ Book tickets online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
⛪ Modest dress code
Ensure shoulders and knees are covered, or use provided wraps.
Works at the Oratory and Caravaggio Wing at St John's Co-Cathedral
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and art.
🚶♂️ Explore the floors
Don't miss the intricate marble tomb slabs; they tell a story.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book tickets online
Skip the long queues by purchasing your tickets in advance.
⛪ Modest dress code
Ensure shoulders and knees are covered, or use provided wraps.
🎧 Use the audio guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and art.
🚶♂️ Explore the floors
Don't miss the intricate marble tomb slabs; they tell a story.
⬆️ Climb the clock tower
Worth the extra fee for stunning city views!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Co-Cathedral's breathtaking interior, describing it as an unparalleled masterpiece of art and history. The opulent Baroque details, gilded walls, and Caravaggio paintings are major highlights, though the intricate marble floor tombs are also frequently praised for their historical significance. Some note long wait times, emphasizing the benefit of booking tickets online.
"Absolutely insane, never seen anything like this before. Anywhere you look you see something unique, the amount of history, the detail and the care of preservation are unreviled. The wait was long, but if you get your tickets online you can skip the main queue so I highly recommend doing that. Don't miss this opportunity if you're visiting Malta."
Louis Chambers
"The opulence in the Cathedral is both incredible and sad (being aware of the relative poverty locally). It's easy to see how faith is inspired and the artwork on display and built into the cathedral is incredible.
Staff will make sure that you see the Carrivaggio, but honestly, that's not the most interesting piece. Take time to look at the floors which mark the graves in the cathedral.
One of the staff was kind enough to light up the chapel of relics and explain how they are used as part of mass for All Saints.
It's absolutely worth the entrance fee to sit with the feeling of being very small indeed."
Holly Billinghurst
"St. John’s Co-Cathedral is truly breathtaking and a must-see in Valletta. The exterior is elegant but modest, hiding an absolutely stunning interior filled with intricate Baroque details, golden walls, and awe-inspiring frescoes. Every corner is rich with history, and the audio guide adds so much depth to the visit. The Caravaggio paintings are a highlight and worth the trip on their own. It’s not just a church, it’s a masterpiece of art, architecture, and craftsmanship."
Pamela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. John's Co-Cathedral is centrally located in Valletta, Malta's capital city. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the city. If arriving by bus, most routes terminate at the main bus terminal, which is a short walk away. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking in Valletta can be challenging due to its historic nature and narrow streets. There are public car parks available, such as the MCP car park at the entrance to the city, but they can fill up quickly. It's often easier to use public transport or walk if staying within Valletta.
Yes, many walking tours of Valletta include a visit to St. John's Co-Cathedral. This can be a great way to get historical context and navigate the city efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee typically includes access to the Cathedral and the Museum, which houses the Caravaggio masterpieces. Prices can vary slightly, so it's best to check the official website for the most current information.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance to skip the main queue, especially during peak tourist season or when cruise ships are in port.
Opening hours can vary, and the Cathedral is often closed for services or special events. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, as it is an active place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. If you are not dressed appropriately, covers are usually available to borrow.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Cathedral, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. Always be respectful of worshippers and other visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most famous artworks are undoubtedly Caravaggio's masterpieces, particularly 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist,' located in the Oratory.
The entire marble floor is an elaborate series of inlaid tombstones, commemorating the Knights of Malta and their esteemed predecessors. It's a unique and historically significant feature.
Yes, an audio guide is typically available and highly recommended. It provides in-depth information about the history, art, and architecture, significantly enhancing the visitor experience.
The Oratory is a separate chamber within the Co-Cathedral complex, most famous for housing Caravaggio's dramatic painting, 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.'
Many visitors find the climb up the clock tower to be well worth the additional €5 fee. The panoramic views of Valletta are spectacular, and seeing the clock mechanism in action is fascinating. Be mindful of the narrow stairs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants inside the Co-Cathedral itself. However, Valletta is filled with numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering a wide range of Maltese and international cuisine just a short walk away.
You'll find many excellent dining options on the streets surrounding the Co-Cathedral in Valletta. Explore the side streets for charming local bistros and traditional Maltese restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The opulent interior, the intricate marble floor, the Caravaggio paintings, and the panoramic views from the clock tower offer incredible photo opportunities.
No, flash photography is generally prohibited inside the Co-Cathedral to protect the delicate artworks and frescoes.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography conditions. The clock tower views are stunning at any time of day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical depth might be lost on very young children, the sheer spectacle is undeniable. The audio guide can be helpful for parents to extract interesting tidbits to share. The clock tower climb, while narrow, can be an adventure for older children, offering exciting views. Ensure children are supervised closely due to the delicate nature of the exhibits and the marble floors.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make the most of your budget, consider visiting early in the day to avoid peak crowds and potentially save time. Prioritize the main attractions like the Caravaggio paintings and the floor tombs. The audio guide is a worthwhile investment for understanding the context without needing a paid tour.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of the audio guide to delve deep into the Order's history, the construction of the cathedral, and the significance of its various chapels and artworks. The chapel of relics offers a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the Knights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Caravaggio
Caravaggio's presence in Malta is tied to his time as a Knight of the Order of St. John. His artistic contributions were a testament to the Order's wealth and patronage of the arts. Visiting the Oratory allows you to stand before these powerful works and appreciate their historical and artistic significance firsthand.
Beyond 'The Beheading,' other Caravaggio works within the Co-Cathedral complex include 'Saint Jerome Writing' and 'The Burial of Saint John the Baptist.' Each piece offers a unique glimpse into the artist's genius and the turbulent life he led. The careful restoration efforts ensure these masterpieces continue to awe visitors for generations to come.
The Grandeur of the Marble Floor
Walking across this floor is like traversing a historical document. The sheer number and detail of the tombs are astounding, showcasing the wealth and status of the Knights. Some slabs are particularly ornate, featuring skulls, skeletons, and allegorical figures, adding to the dramatic visual narrative.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and observe the details of the floor. While some sections may be under restoration, the overall impression is one of unparalleled artistry and historical significance. It's a powerful reminder of the Knights' legacy and their deep connection to this sacred space.
Exploring the Clock Tower
Once at the top, the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the historic city, its fortifications, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. It's an excellent spot for photography and to appreciate the strategic importance of Valletta. You also get to see and hear the inner workings of the clock mechanism, a fascinating piece of engineering.
Tours for the clock tower typically start on the hour, so plan your visit accordingly. The effort of the climb is widely considered to be well worth the spectacular vistas and the unique experience of seeing the clock tower from the inside.
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