Location: Valletta
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Things to do in Valletta, Island of Malta: The Best Churches & Cathedrals
Founded in 1565 by the Order of St John as a refuge for soldiers returning from the Crusades, Valletta is now the capital of Malta and a piece of living history. With an unsurpassed collection of original Baroque architecture, fortified city walls overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and the spectacular Co-Cathedral of St John, which features intricately carved stone vaults and a famed painting by Caravaggio, it is no wonder that this smallest of European capital cities is a world heritage site.
Restaurants in Valletta
1. Collegiate Parish Church of St Paul's Shipwreck
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By LeeRP - Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom
The first time I saw this church I stood with tears rolling down my face. Having been in the ostentatious St John's Cathedral this is just as beautiful, if not better because it is too quaint. All of the ceilings are painted in gorgeous frescos. Every alcove is dedicated to a Saint with more frescoes and paintings. There is no entrance fee but I usually make a €5 donation for the upkeep and renovations to the church. It's not easy to find as it's on a side street. Disabled visitors will find it hard to reach this church as the road is very steep and there is a large step into the church. As with all churches in Malta all shoulders (male and female) need to be covered - shoulder coverings are provided - and admittance with short shorts will not be permitted. I find a sarong useful for these times.
2. St. John's Co-Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11,734 reviews
Built between 1573 and 1577, this cathedral contains two masterpieces by Caravaggio. St John’s Co-Cathedral is a gem of Baroque art and architecture. It was built as the conventual church for the Knights of St John. This church is till this very day an important shrine and a sacred place of worship. It is also a venue for cultural events. The construction was commissioned in 1572 by Grand Master Jean de la Cassière to serve as the conventual church of the Knights of Malta and designed by the Maltese military architect Gerolamo Cassar. The church was dedicated to St John the Baptist, the patron saint of the Order. The oratory holds the biggest and only signed masterpiece by Caravaggio. St John’s church is administered by the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation responsible for the religious cultural heritage of the monument.
Reviewed By A7559IAmichaelc - Hampton, Australia
Amazing Cathedral and unique all the key knights of Malta are represented (Germany, Auvergne, Provence, etc..) and you get to see some stunning paintings from Caravaggio especially the beheading of St John the Baptist
3. Parrocca San Pawl Nawfragu
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 776 reviews
Reviewed By bobbythomas153 - Southport, United Kingdom
I visited the Church of St Paul's shipwreck back in early October when i was visiting Malta.I got lost trying to find the church its not the most easiest of places to find.It's tucked away down a side street. I felt safe visiting this church as a lone traveler to Valletta. I found the church to be very dark inside. The decor is so spectacular as is the Magnificent stone floor though out the church. I liked all he areas of the church its all beautiful and well worth a visit.
4. Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 315 reviews
Reviewed By I5083PZvincentg
This church is the Domed Basilica next to St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral both are recognized Icons of Valletta's skyline. A very beautiful Church built in the mid 80' over the sight of the older church built and rebuilt over the centuries. Really worth a visit.
5. St Augustine Church & Priory
6. Our Lady of Damascus
7. Our Lady of Victories Church
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 146 reviews
Reviewed By lizzie53
The first building to have been constructed in Valletta on the instruction of Grand Master Jean de Vallette. The most beautiful marbles, and stunning original painted ceiling. Such friendly attendants too, with an obvious love of the place. Beautiful sense of peace, holiness and history.
8. St. Andrew's Scots Church
9. St. Catherine of Italy
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By marjotjaarda - Cordes-sur-Ciel, France
there are so many churches to visit. We didn`t visit them all, but this one was beautiful and the woman inside was very friendly.
