Historic site · UNESCO
Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni
Valletta, Malta
An underground prehistoric temple carved into the rock, with chambers over several levels.
Church, mosque or temple · Malta · Malta
St John's Co-Cathedral
A plain stone exterior hides one of the most lavish baroque interiors in Europe.
UNESCO World Heritage Paid entry about 75 min
For storytellers
Why St John's Co-Cathedral matters
From outside the cathedral looks plain, like a fortress. Inside, every surface is gilded, painted or carved. The floor is made of marble tombstones of knights, and a chapel holds a famous painting by Caravaggio. Allow time to look up at the vaulted ceiling.
Talking points
- The floor is made of inlaid tombstones.
- A famous painting by Caravaggio hangs in the oratory.
- The contrast with the plain exterior is striking.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
Good to know: Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered.
More in Valletta
Garden
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Valletta, Malta
A terraced garden with a view across the Grand Harbour to the Three Cities.
Palace
Grandmaster's Palace
Valletta, Malta
The knights' former palace, now holding state rooms and an armoury.
Castle
Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum
Valletta, Malta
A star-shaped fort at the tip of Valletta, key to the Great Siege and later wars.
Neighbourhood
Three Cities (Birgu)
Valletta, Malta
The old fortified towns across the harbour from Valletta, with quiet lanes and a marina.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.