圣约翰大教堂

MsTravellingTheRoad

St. John's Co-Cathedral is often called "The Baroque Sistine Chapel". You would easily agree about that after visiting it! It's been the conventual church of the Order of the Knights of St. John for over 200 years. Because of that, the Grand Masters and Knights donated some of the best works of ark by the leading artists for their time as well as enormous contributions to enrich the cathedral.The cathedral floor is covered with more 400 marble gravestones with the names and titles of knight and noble families significant to the order.DO: read about the history of the cathedral before visiting it; check the opening times in advance ( the cathedral is closed on Sunday and public holidays); allow yourself at least an hour or two for exploring it without rushing; there are audio guides provided so make sure you will get one before entering.DO NOT: dress inappropriately as the cathedral is a place of worship; miss the Oratory and the famous paintings by Caravaggio - "The beheading of St John the Baptist" and "St. Jerome".

gentry693

I was stunned at the work inside the church and the hand held guide was very good and clear describing in detail certain points in the cathedral.

Carnaffin

Words cannot describe this Cathedral.It is an unforgettable experience.Takes you back to an out of world experience.The splendour and atmosphere has a wonderful effect on you.You need a good long visit to be able to digest everything that is on show.The tapestry room is wonderful.History takes on a whole new meaning after a visit to this beautiful building.Religion was not a big item for me,but after this visit my beliefs have been restored.

Vinetou

No doubt. The richest church I have ever visited. And I have visited really a lot of churcehs of different religions. I believe no need to repeat some well known facts about the church. It is really worth to spent an hour or two to go from chapell to chapell. Take a look on magnicant paintings, not only the famous Caravaggio. OK, when leaving the church it is a bitter feeling in your had. Is this really the church of the poor? Better to leave this king of thoughts. A magnificat building, worth any minute to be in.

698janicer

The marble floors are exquisite and the gilding is superb. You can photograph inside but not with flash. It was quite busy when we visited, mind you there was a rain storm at the time. There was some restoration work going on when we were there so certain areas couldn't be accessed.

Sacramento54

Valletta itself is breathtaking. But do not miss the cathedral. The audio tour is included and worth the time. Don't miss the Caravaggio and take the stairs to the museum, walk around the choral books, and see the vessel that once held the left arm of John the Baptist. Don't miss the small chapel of the Lady of Philermos. You can only enter for prayer and it is quite moving. There is so much to see, so plan your day to spend time here.

Lena1947

The Flemish tapestries were wonderful. The vaulted ceiling with it's paintings were amazing, but the Caravaggio paintings of The Beheading of St. John the Baptist and of St Jerome were the highlights of the church.

travelitaly9

A Must visit when in Malta. This cathedral is unique and one must visit the museum too. Caravaggio's Beheading of St John is breathtaking!

susano682

We were unsure whether to pay to see this or not but were not disappointed. Excellent audio guide to accompany visit and even as an architectural experience it is stunning. The Caravaggio painting of the beheading of John the Baptist is worth the entrance fee. Looks as if it was painted recently as it seems so fresh and clear. Each small chapel has it's own story to tell and can lead to overload but it is easy to pick and choose how much or how little you wish to see.

Judy455

Not to be missed, paintings are amazing and the wonderful floor, also history of the Knights of St John. Nothing special from the outside but the inside... Wow

850tonys

You must go and see this Cathedral, so much to look at and take photos (no flash), I spent over 3 hours in there and I think I never saw it all, there are hand sets for your use which is very helpful, and outside there are some nice cafe's, but the EU has got there foot in the door and Vallette is not as it once was, shame.

664gillc

This church has stunning architecture especially the solid silver gates at the alter. From the outside it does not look special but do not be fooled. All the churches in Valletta are like little cathedrals. The history of this capitol city is second to none.

700gabrielito

what an incredible experience! the audio guide made it even more enjoyable. we are definitely going to read more about Carvaggio.

207elkea

In one word - breathtaking!!!Full of amazing artwork. A must see if you visit Valetta! Hope you enjoy it as we did.

jennyteignmouth

Carnival in February in Malta is a sight to behold, not only are their very innovative floats in bright colours , groups in costumes but it seems evey child in Malta dresses up, hundreds of frozen characters , lots of sailors, Knights , and some very beautiful home made costumes , not at all amateurish . All the cafes on the squares are full of people eating drinking and laughing, lots of sales in the shops, lots of bands and stalls and people people people, but nowhere do you feel like you might be pick pocketed. Extra buses are put on to cope with the numbers going into the capital. Try the ricotta chees cakes and the pea cakes, filo or puff pastry, a few cents each, sit on the square by St Johns co cathedral and have a drink with it and watch the world go by. Yes visit the cathedral, six euros, but something to behold.