St. John's Co-Cathedral, Valletta: A Baroque Masterpiece in Malta's Capital⛪✨

#springitinerary **Why You MUST Visit:** This UNESCO-listed cathedral is **one of Europe’s most stunning churches**, designed by the Knights of Malta in 1577. Its **humble exterior hides a golden, art-filled interior** with works by Caravaggio, intricate marble floors, and a history tied to the Crusades. A **must for art, history, and architecture lovers**! --- ## **📅 Perfect Visit Itinerary** ### **🌅 Morning: Cathedral & Caravaggio** **🕘 9:00 AM – Arrive Early** (Fewer crowds, better light for photos) - Marvel at the **unassuming façade**—then gasp at the **gold-covered Baroque interior**. - Walk the **inlaid marble tombstones** (400+ Knights are buried here!). **🕙 10:00 AM – Must-See Highlights** ✔ **The Oratory** – Home to **Caravaggio’s *Beheading of St. John*** (his largest work!). ✔ **The Dome** – Gilded frescoes depicting St. John’s life. ✔ **Chapel of the Langue of Aragon** – Most ornate of the 8 knightly "langue" chapels. **🕚 11:00 AM – Cathedral Museum** - See **Flemish tapestries, illuminated manuscripts, and the Knights’ silverware**. --- ### **☕ Midday: Coffee & Valletta Walks** **🕛 12:00 PM – Café Break at Caffe Cordina** - Try *kannoli* or *imqaret* (date pastries) in a historic 19th-century café. **🚶♂️ 12:30 PM – Explore Valletta** - Walk to **Upper Barrakka Gardens** for harbor views. - Visit the **Grand Master’s Palace** (Knights of Malta’s HQ). --- ### **🌇 Evening: Sunset & Fine Dining** **🕠 5:30 PM – Golden Hour at the Cathedral** - The **marble floors glow** in late-afternoon light. **🍷 7:00 PM – Dinner at Rubino** - **Valletta’s oldest restaurant**—try *rabbit stew* or *lampuki pie*. --- ## **💡 Insider Tips** ✔ **Dress Code:** Covered knees/shoulders (shawls available to borrow). ✔ **Best Photo Spot:** The **nave’s marble floor** (geometric patterns!). ✔ **Avoid Cruise Ship Days** (Check Malta cruise schedules). ✔ **Audio Guide:** Worth it for Caravaggio stories (€3). --- ## **🚌 Getting There** - **From Sliema:** Ferry (15 mins) + 10-min walk. - **By Bus:** Routes 133, 130, or 213 stop nearby. --- ### **⛪ Why You’ll Love It:** This cathedral is **Baroque opulence at its finest**—a glittering, art-packed treasure chest. Pair it with Valletta’s knights’ history for a perfect Maltese day.