Ranked among the most beautiful places in the world by Time Out, St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta, does more than impress — it leaves visitors in awe. Behind its almost austere façade lies an interior of extraordinary richness, where every inch feels crafted like a piece of fine art.
At the heart of Malta’s capital, St John’s Co-Cathedral has long been a must-see for travellers and art lovers alike. Its recent ranking by Time Out — placing it 11th among the world’s most beautiful sites — only reinforces the idea that this landmark transcends heritage alone. The eye hardly knows where to rest, so abundant are the details, in a rare balance between opulence and harmony.
A baroque masterpiece of exceptional richness
Built in the 17th century by the Order of St John, St John’s Co-Cathedral stands as one of the most accomplished examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. From the moment you step inside, the effect is striking: ornate arches, 24-carat gold leaf gilding, and richly decorated side chapels.
Together, they create a space of remarkable visual density. The monumental frescoes by Mattia Preti, which cover the vaulted ceiling, depict the life of Saint John the Baptist in dramatic, theatrical fashion.
Each chapel, dedicated to the different langues of the Order, develops its own identity, multiplying textures, colours and symbolic elements.
Caravaggio, marble and breathtaking detail
At the heart of the cathedral lies the oratory, home to The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist (1608), the masterpiece by Caravaggio. Monumental and sombre, the painting commands immediate attention, in stark contrast to the surrounding opulence.
Beneath your feet, another spectacle unfolds. The cathedral floor is composed of nearly 400 marble tombstones, each adorned with coats of arms, inscriptions and finely carved motifs — a mineral tapestry steeped in history, inviting visitors to slow their pace and take in its complexity.
In such an abundant setting, the experience is not one for a quick visit. Taking time to observe, to sit, to let your gaze wander becomes almost essential. At St John’s Co-Cathedral, beauty does not reveal itself all at once — it unfolds, detail by detail.
The 15 most beautiful places in the world according to Time Out
- Picos de Europa, Spain
- Komodo National Park, Indonesia
- The Morgan Library & Museum, New York
- Douro Valley, Portugal
- Big Sur, United States
- Ullswater Lake, England
- Historic centre of Bologna, Italy
- Capo Testa, Sardinia
- Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
- Punakha Valley, Bhutan
- St John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta
- Disko Island, Greenland
- Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre, United States
- Choquequirao, Peru
Planning a trip to Malta? These articles should help you make the most of your stay.
- [The Three Cities: Malta's fortified pearls](https://www.en-vols.com/evasion/voyage/malte-plus-belles-plages/)
- Explore natural wonders and ancient temples on Malta's south coast
- Hotel Saint John, a style haven in the heart of historic Valletta
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Evk0EOpqfeE
