Venice and the Knights of Malta
Venice and the Knights of Malta. Originally the Hospitaller, they significantly influenced the city’s maritime strategy, diplomacy, and esoteric traditions. Their shared history is rich and complex, closely linked to the Crusades, Mediterranean trade, and religious patronage. The Order’s members came from various European countries and took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Venice, long celebrated for its strategic maritime location, provided the Knights with a unique platform to influence regional politics, commerce, and culture. This historical narrative not only underscores the adaptability and resilience of the Order, but also highlights how the infrastructure of care, embodied in institutions like San Giovanni di Malta; was vital in uniting diverse communities, during times of crisis and conflict.
First establishing a presence in Venice as early as the 12th century, the Knights Hospitaller (or Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem); developed as a monastic community affiliated with the Catholic Church. The Order’s members came from various European countries and took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Founded and dedicated to caring for sick and injured pilgrims in Jerusalem, their role was initially to escort travellers to the Holy Lands. However, they soon developed into a formidable military force during the Crusades. Forced out of the Holy Lands following defeat in 1187, they moved their headquarters from Jerusalem to Rhodes and later to Malta; where they became known as the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
Today, the current mission of the Knights of Malta focusses on humanitarian efforts – supporting human dignity and providing care for those in need. Rather than serving as a territorial or military power, they function globally as a humanitarian organization dedicated to medical, social, and relief services.
The Maltese Cross – Symbol of truth, humility, protection, honour, and courage.
Why did the Knights of Malta settle in Venice?
Origins and History.
San Giovanni di Malta.
How did the Knights of Malta influence Venetian culture?
How did Venice impact the operations of the Knights of Malta?
What is the modern mission of the Knights of Malta?
A celebratory poem – “The Knights of Malta in Venice”.
Links (internal-external).
The Maltese Cross – Symbol of truth, humility, protection, honour, and courage.
The Maltese cross, with its star shape and V-shaped ends, was originally linked to the Knights Hospitallers of the medieval Crusades. The Knights brought it to Malta, where it adorned structures, coins, forts, and jewellery. The eight points of the cross represent the regions from which the Knights Hospitallers originated and their eight obligations: being truthful, having faith, repenting sins, being humble, striving for justice, showing mercy, being wholehearted, and enduring persecution.
In contemporary times, the cross remains highly significant in Malta. The Sovereign Military Order of Malta adopts this symbol, interpreting its eight points as representing the eight beatitudes, which outline the ultimate purpose of human actions within the Christian faith. Furthermore, the cross is prominently featured in Malta’s tourism industry, sports teams, and Air Malta.
On an international level, the Maltese cross is utilized by various military organizations to symbolize bravery. Nations including Germany, France, the Philippines, Sweden, and Poland incorporate the cross into their highest honours. The symbol is also present on numerous coats of arms. In the medical field, the Maltese cross appears in the logos of companies, fraternities, and sports clubs worldwide. It is widely recognized as a symbol of honour and courage across the globe.
Why did the Knights of Malta settle in Venice?
The Knights Hospitaller, later to become the Knights of Malta, first established a presence in Venice as early as the 12th century. Their settlement was linked to their broader mission of providing medical care and military support for Christian pilgrims. Venice, being a major hub for trade and travel, was a strategic location for the Order. Venice’s role as a gateway between Europe and the Mediterranean made it an ideal location for the Knights to support their mission. Their presence in the city was not only religious, but also diplomatic and strategic.
One of the earliest records of their presence in Venice dates back to 1144, when a Venetian noblewoman left a bequest to the Hospital of Jerusalem, indicating that the Hospitallers were already active in the city. In 1187, the Archbishop of Ravenna donated land to the Order so they could build a hospital and a church. This led to the establishment of San Giovanni di Malta, a church and priory dedicated to John the Baptist.
The Knights Hospitaller continued to maintain their presence in Venice for centuries, even after their main base was moved to Malta in 1530. Their Venetian priory was disbanded in 1806 under Napoleonic rule, but the church was later restored to the Order in 1841.
Venice and the Knights of Malta – Origins and History
The Knights of Malta possess a distinguished and intriguing history. They were originally known as the Knights Hospitaller, later referred to as the Knights of the Order of St John, subsequently the Knights of Rhodes, and presently the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.
Founded in the 11th Century during the Crusades, the Order began as a monastic community affiliated with the Catholic Church. Its main goal was to provide medical care for pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. The Knights established a hospital in Jerusalem to care for all pilgrims, regardless of faith or race. In 1113, Pope Paschal II declared the community independent.
The Order’s members came from various European countries and took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Over time, they added the military defense of pilgrims to their hospitaller mission, providing armed escorts to those traveling to the Holy Land. The Order recruited knights from among European crusaders, who served as heavy cavalry. Gradually, the Order became militarized while still maintaining its hospitaller role.
After Jerusalem fell in 1291, the Knights faced many challenges and moved to Rhodes and became known as the Knights of Rhodes. They built a naval fleet to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land and defended against Ottoman attacks. In 1522, the Ottomans besieged Rhodes for several months and ultimately defeated the Knights, forcing them to flee to Sicily.
In 1530, Emperor Charles V of Spain bestowed the Maltese islands upon the Knights. These islands subsequently became their new headquarters. The Maltese archipelago played a pivotal role in safeguarding Christendom against Ottoman invasions. Consequently, the Order came to be known as the Knights of Malta. Their presence on the islands endured for over two centuries.
During their time in Malta, the Knights transformed the island, turning the island into a stronghold that successfully defended it against several Ottoman attacks, earning military respect. In 1798, Napoleon captured Malta, ending their rule and dispersing the Order. Despite this, the Knights adapted to new circumstances and continued their humanitarian work across Europe; focusing on medical and charitable endeavours. Although attempts were made to regain control, Malta eventually became a British colony, and the Order’s role as a sovereign state was curtailed .
The illustrious history of the Knights is distinguished by their steadfast dedication to serving others, defending the faith, and upholding the principles of chivalry. Their transition from the Holy Land to Rhodes and ultimately to Malta exemplifies their resilience and unwavering commitment to their mission.
The Knights and their Rule over Malta
After years without a territory, King Charles V of Spain gifted the Knights the Maltese islands in 1530. Grand Master Fra’ Philippe de Villiers de l’Isle Adam accepted Malta on behalf of the Knights in exchange for an annual Maltese Falcon. Though they initially disliked the islands, they accepted them as a home, albeit not a permanent one.
The Knights chose to settle in Birgu rather than Mdina, upgrading Fort St. Angelo as their main seat of power. Recognizing Malta’s strategic Mediterranean position, they built a naval base and began fortifying the island to resist pirate attacks.
Through spies in Constantinople, the Knights learned of an impending attack and began preparations, such as harvesting crops and poisoning wells. The Ottoman Empire besieged Malta in 1565 with approximately 36,000 soldiers. Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vallette supervised the defense, and the Knights and Maltese held the island for over three months. The battle, known as the Great Siege of Malta, was significant because the fall of the islands would have given the Ottoman Empire control of the Mediterranean. Against all odds, the Knights emerged victorious, preventing the Ottomans from gaining a foothold in Western Europe.
Following the Great Siege of 1565, the Knights decided to fortify the island. They constructed several structures and undertook significant projects. One notable project was the construction of the city of Valletta, named after its founder Grand Master Jean de la Vallette. This city became the Knights’ new seat of power. Valletta remains Malta’s capital city today, with most of its original buildings and fortifications still intact, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Knights significantly influenced Malta’s development by constructing palaces, auberges, churches, bastions, gardens, and a theatre. Their rule saw the flourishing of architecture. A large hospital, La Sacra Infermeria, was built in Valletta, serving as a school of anatomy and a faculty of medicine and representing the Knights’ service mission. Additionally, they constructed St. John’s Co-Cathedral, known for its gilded walls, mosaic floors, and paintings.
Forts were built to protect harbour areas. Fort St Elmo, Fort Ricasoli, and Fort San Salvatore guard the Grand Harbour. Fort Tigne and Fort Manoel guard Marsamxett Harbour. Fort Chambray guards Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The Knights enhanced coastal defence with watch towers, each within sight of the next, for early invasion warnings.
The Knights built bastions around Valletta, Floriana, and the Three Cities. They upgraded the medieval bastions of Mdina and the Citadel in Gozo. They constructed Palaces and Auberges to live in and conduct their business. These buildings are characterized by baroque architecture and art. Notable Palaces include Verdala Palace, the Inquisitor’s Palace, the Grand Master’s Palace, and San Anton Palace. The Auberges were residences for the Knights from various European countries, with each Auberge reflecting the Knight’s organization based on their country of origin. Several Auberges still stand today, including Auberge de France and Auberge d’Angleterre in Birgu, and Auberge de Castille, Auberge d’Aragon, Auberge d’Italie, Auberge de Provence, and Auberge de Baviere in Valletta.
Despite ruling the Maltese islands, the Order continued to engage in Mediterranean battles against the Ottomans and Pirates. Over time, the Knights’ popularity declined due to growing dissatisfaction among the Maltese. During the rule of Grand Master Manuel Pinto da Fonseca, the Knights led a lifestyle that resulted in financial difficulties.
In 1798, the Knights were ousted from Malta by the French under Napoleon Bonaparte. While en route to Egypt, the French army invaded Malta, leading to minimal resistance from the Knights due to their code prohibiting them from raising weapons against other Christians. Following several hours of fighting, the Maltese in the west of the island surrendered. Facing the large French army, the Grand Master negotiated the surrender of Valletta. The Knights were forced to leave Malta and were dispersed across Europe, with many taking refuge in Saint Petersburg. Despite this, the Order continued to exist in a diminished form.
Malta eventually became a British colony, and the Order’s role as a sovereign state was curtailed.
The Knights have left a significant mark on the Maltese Islands, influencing the history of Malta during their two-century occupation. Their impact is still visible today
Present State of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta
In 1834, the Order settled in Rome. The Order’s hospitaller mission became once again its primary focus, especially during World War I and II. It remains an important institution, emphasizing charity, compassion, and the protection of the vulnerable.
In modern times, the Knights of Malta are recognized as a sovereign state, subject to international law. The Order has two headquarters in Rome: the Magisterial Palace and the Magisterial Villa on the Aventine Hill. The Knights of Malta are known for their historical significance and humanitarian work worldwide. The Order continues its mission to provide medical care and humanitarian aid.
The Order has diplomatic relations with 112 countries and maintains embassies in other countries. It enters into treaties and issues its own passports, coins, and local stamps.
Historically, members of the Order came from aristocratic families, but this is no longer the case. Now, it is important for members to have a noble spirit and conduct. The Order has 13,500 Knights and Dames. Today’s Knights are categorized into three classes. The first class is Knights of Justice, who make vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. The second class undertakes a promise of obedience and commits to living in accordance with Christian and Order principles. The third class does not profess religious vows but lives according to the principles of the Church and Order.
Venice and the Knights of Malta – San Giovanni di Malta
Introduction. Venice and the Knights of Malta share a history that is as rich as it is complex, intertwined with the broader narratives of the Crusades, Mediterranean trade, and religious patronage.
The Knights Hospitaller, later known as the Knights of Malta, established a significant presence in Venice as early as the 12th century. One of the most emblematic symbols of their influence is the church of San Giovanni di Malta, which was reportedly founded following the donation of land, by Archbishop Gerardo of Ravenna in 1187. This establishment not only served as a place of worship but also as a hospital, emphasizing the Order’s commitment to caring for pilgrims and the sick during tumultuous times.
In italian, the Chiesa Priorale di San Giovanni Battista dei Cavalieri di Malta and the adjacent hospital of Saint Catherine were built in 1187. It is is also known as San Giovanni del Tempio (some suggest that the Templars originally owned the property, before their dissolution in 1312); or San Giovanni dei Furlani (for the numerous presence of the immigrant Friulian community in the area). It is a Roman Catholic church in the Castello district of Venice, dedicated to John the Baptist.
It owes its current delineation to the restoration carried out by the Grand Prior Fra’ Sebastiano Michiel between 1498 and 1505. In 1500, he commissioned Giovanni Bellini to design the famous altarpiece depicting the “Baptism of Jesus Chris”t where at the feet of the Lord we find the client portrayed. This period of renovation not only left a lasting mark on the architectural landscape of Venice, but also symbolized the Order’s adaptive role; as Venice thrived as a crucial hub in Mediterranean commerce and a gateway for crusaders, pilgrims, and merchants alike.
The property was taken over by the state under Napoleonic French control in 1806 and the church was closed in 1810 andled to the church being repurposed as a theatre and storage space. Fortunately, in 1841, it was handed back over to the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, who reopened the church in 1843.
The church has a long nave with a ceiling constructed out of timber and brick. The number of chapels has been reduced over time.
The high altar, designed in the early 16th century by the well-known Venetian architect Jacopo Sansovino, comes from the church of San Geminiano which was located in Piazza San Marco, in front of the Basilica. It was designed by Cristoforo da Legname and it contains statues of saints sculpted by Bartolomeo Bergamasco. It was demolished in the early 19th century, to allow the construction of the Royal Palace, now home to the Correr Museum. It was restored in 2020, bringing to light the original colourations.
In the presbytery on the side walls are drawn several maltese crosses to which are hung the coats of arms of the Superior and of the professed knights and chaplains who are part of the Grand Priory. In those on the left side, the crosses are accompanied by a rosary and are reserved for the professed of solemn vows; those on the right side are instead intended for the professed of simple vows. Also on the right wall of the presbytery is a large icon of the Blessed Virgin Nikopeia, patroness of Venice, of the Venetian people and of this Grand Priory.
In the front part of the nave, can be found the funeral monuments of Archduke Frederick of Austria and of Fra’ Bertucci Contarini, as well as a very old high relief where are represented the Virgin with the Child Jesus, Saint Catherine of Alexandria (Patroness of the Langue of Italy of the Order of Malta) and Saint John the Baptist with a kneeling knight. On the sides we have a saint and an angel. In the middle of the nave there are two side altars dedicated respectively, to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin and to St. Filomena.
In the choir there is the ancient pipe organ that is still used during religious functions and concerts.
External. In recent years there has been talk of restoring what is said to be the biggest private garden in Venice, back to its 15th-century appearance; as represented in the old plan and opening it to the public via the gate at Campo delle Gatte.
Getting there.
Vaporetto: San Zaccaria or Arsenale.
One easy route is to walk a few minutes north, from just to the right of Santa Maria della Pieta (Vivaldi’s Church).
How did the they influence Venetian culture?
The Knights of Malta left a cultural imprint on Venice, by shaping how the city viewed military-religious orders, influencing art, architecture, literature, and even social narratives.
Here are several key dimensions of their influence:
Architectural and Artistic Influence: The presence of the Knights was palpable in the urban landscape. Buildings, churches, and monuments in Venice often incorporated motifs that signalled the martial religiosity of the Order. The Knights of Malta left subtle yet profound symbolic imprints on Venetian art and architecture, reflecting their esoteric traditions and chivalric ideals.
- The Maltese Cross: This iconic symbol, associated with the Knights, appears in various Venetian churches and palaces, often integrated into decorative elements or hidden within frescoes.
- San Giovanni di Malta: The Knights’ priory in Venice, located in the Castello district, features architectural elements that blend Venetian and Hospitaller influences, emphasizing their dual role as warriors and caretakers.
- Esoteric Symbolism: Venetian art, particularly in religious spaces, often incorporates themes of sacred geometry and alchemical motifs, which align with the Knights’ mystical traditions.
- Influence on Venetian Nobility: Many Venetian patricians had ties to the Knights, leading to commissions of artworks that subtly referenced their ideals of service, secrecy, and spiritual warfare.
- Influence derived from the Knights Templars: The other organisation associated with the Holy Lands (Jerusalem and the Temple Mount) and the Crusades. Said to have been founded slightly later around 1119, their initial and enduring mission was military protection. They quickly evolved into a formidable fighting force dedicated to securing safe passage for pilgrims. The Templars grew extremely wealthy, thanks in part to an early form of banking and a centralized organizational structure. This financial prowess and political clout eventually set them apart, and ultimately led to their dramatic dissolution in the early 14th century; amid political and financial controversies and serious accusations of immoral conduct. It is likely that many Templars found therir way into other esoteric or secretive organisations. However, in contrast, the Hospitallers managed to merge martial prowess with a strong charitable spirit; eventually establishing the long-lasting institution recognized as the Knights of Malta.
Cultural Otherness and Dramatic Narratives: Venice, with its intricate balancing act between East and West and delicate diplomatic relations with the Ottoman Empire, viewed the Knights of Malta as emblematic of a more aggressive, uncompromising approach to Islam and crusading warfare. This perspective contributed to a sense of “otherness” that was woven into the city’s cultural and literary discourse. Tales, legends, and even theatre productions sometimes drew on the mystique and martial prowess of the Knights, cementing them as both admired and controversial figures in Venetian popular imagination.
Socio-Political Symbolism and Public Perception: The Order’s involvement in maritime privateering and intermittent clashes with Venetian interests amplified its symbolic role in the cultural narrative of Venice. While the Knights’ actions could disrupt commerce and diplomacy, they also generated a rich tapestry of opinions and fears that found their way into Venetian art and poetry. Their image became a lens through which the city explored themes of loyalty, imperial ambition, and the conflicts inherent in reconciling martial rigour with mercantile pragmatism.
Legacy Through Restoration and Memory: Even as divergent political motives sometimes led to punitive actions,such as confiscations of properties; the Knights of Malta’s contributions to Venetian culture were later reinterpreted in a more nuanced light. Over time, restoration efforts and historical commemorations have recast their controversial past into a celebrated legacy, reflecting Venice’s evolving relationship with its own history of conflict and cooperation. In this way, the Knights’ once-maligned figures have become part of Venice’s rich mosaic of cultural memory, influencing modern narratives about the city’s identity .
The interplay of these artistic, social, and political forces reveals that the Knights of Malta were not just a military order but also pivotal cultural actors. Their legacy continues to spark debates and inspire further historical inquiry into how martial values merged with artistic expression in one of history’s most dynamic cities.
How did Venice impact their operations?
Venice played a multifaceted role in shaping the operations and influence of the Knights of Malta, and its impact can be seen from both political and economic perspectives.
- A Balancing Act of Diplomacy: Venice was a powerful maritime republic whose success depended on maintaining a delicate balance with both Christian and Muslim powers. The Knights of Malta, committed to a perpetual conflict with Muslim forces, often clashed with Venetian interests. Where the Hospitallers engaged in privateering and aggressive actions against their Muslim foes, Venice preferred a more nuanced and pragmatic approach -pursuing trade and diplomacy with the Ottoman Empire. This fundamental difference meant that when the Knights adopted a belligerent stance, it threatened the commercial and political stability Venice sought to preserve. In instances where their operations were seen as too provocative or harmful to Venetian relations with the Ottoman Porte, Venice even resorted to measures such as confiscating some of the Order’s properties in the Veneto region, thereby directly impacting their ability to conduct regional operations.
- Economic and Maritime Influences: Venice was a hub of Mediterranean commerce. Its well-established trade networks were sensitive to disruptions by piracy and aggressive military actions. The Knights of Malta, sometimes engaging in privateering (often referred to as the “Maltese Corso”), found themselves at odds with Venetian economic interests. Venice’s cautious and strategic approach meant that the Knights’ naval operations, which might have otherwise bolstered the Order’s funding and reach, were met with local resistance. The Venetian prioritization of secure trade routes and stable commerce created an environment where the Knights’ operations had to be carefully negotiated, if not outright limited, to avoid jeopardizing Venice’s economic well-being.
- Shaping Public Perception and Institutional Interactions: Venetian attitudes toward the Knights, were not solely about tangible assets or diplomatic stances; they also involved perceptions and public image. The Order’s overtly militant posture and its self-appointed role as a defender of Christendom made it a subject of both admiration and suspicion. Prominent Venetian figures, like naval commanders, sometimes characterized the Knights in terms that underscored their role as catalysts for instability (for example, being labelled as promoters of corsair activities). Such views contributed to a climate where the Knights’ actions were scrutinized more closely, leading to increased regulatory or coercive measures from Venice to protect its strategic interests .
- Long-Term Consequences and Adaptation: Over time, the friction between the two powers led to notable shifts in operations. As Venice found itself increasingly dependent on balanced relationships with Muslim states for its own survival, the Order had to recalibrate its actions in the region. By the 1750s, both Venice and the Knights began a slow process of rapprochement, acknowledging that mutual interests might allow for a more cooperative coexistence. This evolution in their relationship reflected the broader, ever-changing dynamics of Mediterranean politics and trade; underpinning the need for adaptability on both sides.
The interplay between Venice’s diplomatic pragmatism and the Knights’ martial zeal, defined much of the Order’s operational landscape. Venice’s impact not only curtailed some of the Knights’ more aggressive initiatives, but also indirectly influenced their broader strategies, reminding us how state power and local commerce can shape even the most storied military-religious orders.
What is the modern mission of the Knights of Malta?
The current mission of the Knights of Malta focuses on humanitarian efforts; supporting human dignity and providing care for those in need. Today, rather than serving as a territorial or military power, they function globally as a humanitarian organization dedicated to medical, social, and relief services.
Humanitarian and Medical Assistance: The Order operates extensive healthcare programs, disaster relief operations, and social services in over 120 countries. Their activities include providing emergency assistance during natural disasters, establishing medical facilities in conflict zones, and supporting communities with chronic health challenges.
Diplomatic and International Engagement: The Order holds a unique position in international diplomacy. With diplomatic relations with over 100 states and permanent observer status at the United Nations, it uses this global network to advocate for peace, human rights, and humanitarian principles. This role allows the Order to influence international policy and coordinate relief efforts with other organizations and governments.
Non-Political, Impartial Service: The modern Knights of Malta emphasize neutrality and impartiality. Their work is strictly humanitarian, not political or economic, ensuring help is provided regardless of a person’s background, ethnicity, or beliefs. This apolitical stance supports the Order’s commitment to peace and stability in regions affected by conflict or natural disasters.
Legacy Reimagined for Today: While historically involved in chivalric and military traditions, the contemporary Order focuses on aiding communities in crisis. Their network, including national associations, diplomatic missions, volunteer corps, and specialized medical teams, supports various projects; from assisting refugees to helping local communities in emergencies.
This shift from a medieval military and hospitaller organization to a modern humanitarian entity, demonstrates the Order’s ability to adapt and remain relevant; addressing current global challenges of state fragility and humanitarian need.
A celebratory poem – “The Knights of Malta in Venice”
In a water-bound city of secrets and light,
Where history’s pulse whispers in every stone,
The Knights of Malta stride into the night,
Their fabled past in Venice brightly shone.
At the heart lies San Giovanni di Malta,
A beacon of faith and silent, sacred might,
Its arches keep the prayers that never halt,
A haven where chivalry meets divine insight.
Upon their banners, the Maltese cross gleams,
An emblem etched with valor and ancient lore,
Reflecting in each ripple of Venetian streams,
A symbol of steadfast honor, forevermore.
Through narrow lanes where gondolas glide,
The church stands as a testament so profound,
The Knights, in their armour, with honour as their guide,
Guard myths and miracles where echoes resound.
In every whisper of the palace of dreams,
In every shadow cast by the city’s old art,
The spirit of the Knights eternally redeems,
Intertwining faith, valor, and the human heart.
Links (internal–external)
For those interested in the mysterious, mythical or dark side of Venetian history and culture; I have put together a list of links below to my posts; that include elements of Christian Symbolism, Sacred Geometry, Kabbalah, Alchemy and Freemasonry.
Venice and the Knights Templars
Symbolism of the Venetian Cross
Palazzo Lezze and Alchemic Symbolism
Kabbalah and San Francesco della Vigna
Doge’s Palace – Column Capitals
Pateras – Small Circular Reliefs
Mythical Beasts and their Symbolism
Sovereign Order of Malta – Official website
Short 4 min overview. You Tube Video: Knights of Malta Explained:Their Role in History and Modern Society
Full 53minute BBC documentary from 1978. You Tube Video: Chronicle: The Knights of Malta – BBC – April 25th, 1978
For a guided visit of the Venetian seat of the Knights of Malta contact: “YourtoursinVenice” Professional certified tourist guides and escorts with many years of experience.
Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta
Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta Venice and the Knights of Malta