Grand Master Hompesch was unable to defend Malta against Napoleon's forces in 1798. His surrender led to his abdication as Grand Master, seeking refuge in Trieste. Russian Tsar Paul I […]

Grand Master De Rohan convened the first Chapter General in 145 years. His tenure coincided with the French Revolution, resulting in the loss of the Order's possessions in France. During […]

Grand Master Ximenes sparked widespread protests among the population after reducing salaries to combat a financial crisis. After quelling a rebellion, Ximenes executed ringleaders, displaying their heads at St. James […]

During Grand Master Pinto's rule, a plot to assassinate him was uncovered. This led to the arrest of Mustapha Pasha of Rhodes and 150 conspirators. He was the longest serving […]

Grand Master Despuig's tenure was marked by peace and stability. He focused on eliminating Turkish influence to secure Mediterranean commerce. He oversaw the completion of St. Barbara’s Church and the […]

Grand Master Antoine Manoel de Vilhena was presented with the Stock and Pilier, the highest papal distinction. He oversaw the construction of Floriana to address Valletta’s housing shortage. He commissioned […]

Grand Master Zondadari expanded the Order's fleet, dominating the Mediterranean. His uncle, Fabio Chigi, served as Inquisitor in Malta and later became Pope Alexander VII. He emphasized maritime power and […]

Grand Master Perellós established the Consolato del Mare, a specialized tribunal handling naval affairs. The capture of the city of Oran on the Algerian coast by the Turks in 1708 […]