St. John’s Co-Cathedral

A church whose interior stands testament to the ethereal beauty of Baroque. Art and history enthusiasts revel in its majestic beauty, as will anyone with an appreciation for fine architecture. The world-famous St. John's Co-Cathedral was commissioned in 1572 by Grandmaster Jean de la Cassière as the conventual church of the Knights of St. John. Designed by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar and completed in 1577, it has a plain façade that hides its lavish interior. Its internal décor inclusive of 18 vignettes depicting its titular saint, St. John the Baptist, was largely entrusted to Italian artist Mattia Preti. Be sure not to miss the only signed Caravaggio painting in the world: The Beheading of St John the Baptist. This is considered by many as one of the best works of art of the 17th century. Visit the adjacent museum featuring an impressive collection of Flemish tapestries, liturgical vestments and hand-painted choral books.