Saint John's Co-Cathedral Museum
About This Museum
If these walls could talk, they'd speak in the rich whispers of the Knights of St. John, who built this magnificent church as their conventual seat back in the 1570s. Stepping inside is an assault on the senses in the best way possible; your eyes are immediately drawn upward to the breathtakingly ornate barrel-vaulted ceiling, every inch covered in intricate gold leaf. It's more than a museum—it's a time capsule of faith, power, and artistry. You can almost hear the rustle of ceremonial robes and feel the weight of centuries in the cool, still air.
Collection Highlights
Without a doubt, Caravaggio's monumental 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist' is the star, its dramatic shadows and raw emotion stopping you in your tracks. Don't rush past the stunning inlaid marble floors covering the tombs of hundreds of knights, each one a unique work of art. The oratory and sacristy hold priceless Flemish tapestries and sacred vestments that complete the story.
Visitor Information
It gets incredibly busy, so an early morning visit is your best bet for a moment of quiet contemplation. Do mind the dress code—shoulders and knees need to be covered—and be prepared to have your breath taken away.
Architecture & Building
The exterior is a masterpiece of Mannerist austerity, all clean lines and fortress-like strength. But that starkness makes the explosion of Baroque grandeur inside all the more powerful, with its gilded arches, carved stone walls, and that unforgettable golden ceiling.
Contact & Location
Address: Saint John's Co-Cathedral Museum, Triq l-Arċipriet Pietru Pawl Ċiantar, Ix-Xewkija, Għawdex, XWK 1028, Malta
Phone: +356 2122 0536
Website: Visit Website
