Best churches in Malta
When travellers think of Malta, they often picture golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich Mediterranean culture. But beyond the coastline lies a deeper story — one rooted in centuries of faith and tradition. Malta’s religious heritage, expressed through its stunning churches and cathedrals, is a major highlight for visitors seeking history, architecture, and spiritual discovery.
This guide highlights how Malta’s religious heritage blends seamlessly with tourism, offering travellers a unique mix of cultural depth and spiritual discovery. From Baroque masterpieces to centuries-old chapels, the island is home to some of the most remarkable churches and cathedrals in the Mediterranean. We’ll take you on a journey through Malta’s most iconic sites — including Old St Catherine’s Church, the majestic Verdala Palace, the Chapel of St Anthony of Padua, and the famous St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta — each revealing a piece of the island’s religious and architectural legacy.
Important to Know Before Visiting Malta’s Churches
- Over 365 churches are scattered across Malta and Gozo — that’s more than one per day of the year!
- The majority of Maltese churches are Roman Catholic, reflecting the island’s strong religious roots.
- Many churches are Baroque masterpieces, housing priceless artworks by artists like Caravaggio and Mattia Preti.
- Some churches prohibit photography inside — always check signage or ask staff.
- Opening hours may vary, especially in smaller chapels — it’s best to plan ahead.
Malta is home to hundreds of churches, but a few stand out for their historical, architectural, and cultural significance. Here are five of the most famous and breathtaking churches and cathedrals to explore during your stay — each offering a unique window into Malta’s religious heritage.
Located in the heart of Valletta, St John’s Co-Cathedral is without a doubt Malta’s most renowned religious monument. Built between 1573 and 1578 by the Knights of St John, the church served as their conventual church and spiritual headquarters. From the outside, the cathedral resembles a fortified building — a nod to Malta’s military past — but the interior is a stark contrast, revealing one of the most lavishly decorated Baroque churches in Europe.
The walls and ceilings are entirely covered in gilded carvings, intricate frescoes, and marble tombstones commemorating the Knights. The most celebrated artwork is The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravaggio — the only signed painting by the artist, and widely considered one of his masterpieces. Don’t miss the side chapels, each dedicated to the different “Langues” (national groups) of the Order, which display exquisite funerary monuments, coats of arms, and devotional altars.
A short walk from St John’s Co-Cathedral, St Catherine’s Church (or the Church of St Catherine of Italy) is a smaller but historically rich site tucked beside the Auberge d’Italie. Commissioned by the Italian knights in the late 16th century, the church embodies the Renaissance and early Baroque styles introduced to Malta during that era. Its strategic location in the capital made it an important center for the Italian community of the Order of St John.
The façade, rebuilt in 1713, features elegant Baroque ornamentation and a striking dome. Inside, visitors can admire the church’s artistic centrepiece: The Martyrdom of Saint Catherine, painted by Mattia Preti, one of Malta’s most influential artists. The walls are adorned with scenes from the saint’s life, reflecting both artistic brilliance and deep Catholic devotion. Though less known than St John’s, this church is a peaceful and enriching stop for lovers of sacred art.
Built in 1727 as part of the fortifications of Fort Manoel, the Chapel of St Anthony of Padua is one of the island’s lesser-known gems. It was commissioned by Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena to serve the spiritual needs of the soldiers stationed at the fort. Despite its military surroundings, the chapel stands out for its refined architecture and serene atmosphere.
The Baroque façade features Ionic pilasters, a triangular pediment, and sculptural details that emphasize harmony and symmetry. The interior, though modest in size, includes a nave, side altars, and a crypt used for burials. Unfortunately, the chapel suffered severe damage during WWII bombings. However, a meticulous restoration completed in 2009 brought it back to life, preserving its historical integrity. Today, it is listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands and is occasionally opened for guided tours.
Tucked within the private grounds of Verdala Palace, this chapel is often overlooked by tourists but holds a unique place in Malta’s religious and political history. The palace itself, built in 1586 for Grand Master Verdalle, was a luxurious countryside retreat for the Order of St John. The adjacent chapel served the spiritual needs of the Grand Masters and visiting dignitaries and offers a rare insight into the private devotion of Malta’s ruling elite.
The structure is elegantly simple, in keeping with its secluded location amid the Buskett Gardens. Over the centuries, Verdala Palace was used as a military prison, then restored and transformed into the official summer residence of Malta’s governors during the British period. Although the palace and chapel are not open to the public year-round, they can be visited during special events such as the prestigious Ball of the August Moon. These occasions offer a rare opportunity to admire the site’s historical charm and religious significance.
Towering above the town of Mosta, the Rotunda of Mosta, also known as the Mosta Dome, is one of Malta’s most iconic landmarks. Inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, it boasts one of the largest unsupported domes in the world, with an internal diameter of over 37 meters. Construction began in 1833 and took over 25 years to complete, funded largely by the local community’s donations and dedication.
The church is not only architecturally impressive, but also carries a powerful story of faith. In 1942, during a WWII bombing raid, a German aerial bomb pierced the dome while a congregation of over 300 people was inside for Mass — but miraculously, it failed to explode. This event is considered by many Maltese as divine intervention, and a replica of the bomb is now on display inside the church.
The interior features elegant Neoclassical design, fine sculptures, and paintings, making the Mosta Rotunda both a spiritual haven and a monumental feat of Maltese engineering and devotion.
Having explored some of Malta’s most iconic churches and cathedrals, it becomes clear that religious heritage plays a central role in the island’s identity and appeal. These sacred sites are far more than places of worship — they are living testaments to Malta’s rich history, artistic excellence, and enduring faith. For travellers interested in architecture, history, or cultural depth, visiting these churches offers a unique and meaningful way to experience the island.
From the serene St Catherine’s Church, dating back to 1576 and adorned with the remarkable Martyrdom of Saint Catherine by Mattia Preti, to the imposing Verdala Palace Chapel, nestled in Malta’s countryside and steeped in the legacy of the Knights of St John — each site unveils a different chapter of the island’s spiritual and political past.
The Chapel of St Anthony of Padua, quietly restored after the devastation of WWII, reminds us of the resilience of faith and its importance to Malta’s military and religious history. And of course, St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta stands as the crown jewel of Maltese Baroque, impressing visitors with its stunning interior, historical tombs, and Caravaggio’s masterpiece.
These churches are not only remarkable for their beauty, but also for the stories they carry — stories of devotion, resilience, power, and community. Exploring them is more than a cultural outing; it’s a true journey through centuries of Maltese life, deeply rooted in Catholic tradition and Mediterranean heritage.
Here are some specific tips for tourists when visiting Malta's cathedrals and churches:
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Malta is home to over 365 churches, but a few stand out as truly unmissable. The Co-Cathedral of St John in Valletta is a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture, featuring The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist by Caravaggio. St Catherine’s Church offers a more intimate experience with its Renaissance roots and Preti’s artwork. The Chapel of St Anthony of Padua, located on Manoel Island, is a hidden gem with a military past and elegant Baroque design. Lastly, Verdala Palace Chapel, although only open during special events, is a rare window into the private religious life of Malta’s historic elite.
When entering churches and cathedrals in Malta, it’s important to dress modestly: shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for local customs. Silence is expected inside, as many churches are active places of worship. Be mindful of photography restrictions — some churches prohibit photos entirely, while others may allow non-flash pictures. Finally, check opening hours in advance, especially for smaller chapels which may close during midday or on specific days.
St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is famous for its breathtaking interior and historical significance. Built in the 16th century by the Knights of St John, its simple exterior contrasts with an extravagant Baroque interior decorated by Mattia Preti. The cathedral’s greatest treasure is Caravaggio’s masterpiece The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, the only signed work by the artist. The marble floor is inlaid with over 400 tombstones of knights, making the church not just a work of art, but a powerful historical monument.
Malta is often said to have a church for every day of the year — and that’s nearly true. There are more than 365 churches and chapels across Malta and Gozo. This density reflects the island’s strong Roman Catholic identity and centuries of devotion. Even the smallest villages have their own parish church, often beautifully decorated and at the heart of local life and celebrations.