Why go
The church brings the wealth and rivalries of the Order of St John into one building. Look from the painted vault to the floor, where individual knights are remembered in coloured marble. The side chapels belonged to the Order's different language divisions, giving their decoration a clear historical purpose.
What to look for
- Caravaggio's Beheading of Saint John the Baptist in the Oratory
- Mattia Preti's painted vault and carved walls
- Marble tomb slabs bearing knights' coats of arms
Useful to know
- Use the visitors' entrance facing the Law Courts on Republic Street.
- Compare the language divisions' side chapels before entering the Oratory.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Indoor visit · 45–90 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.