History of the Order

This original blog series is for those who wish to learn more about the Order of Malta and its rich, 900-year history.

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Grand Master Manuel Pinto da Fonseca
13 Mar 2024| Grand Masters of the Order

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 Ramón Despuig y Martinez de Marcilla
14 Feb 2024| Grand Masters of the Order

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
17 Jan 2024| Grand Masters of the Order

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 Marc'Antonio Zondadari
20 Dec 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

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 Ramón Perellós y Roccafull
22 Nov 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

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 […]

Grand Master Adrien de Wignacourt
25 Oct 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

During Wignacourt's reign, the catastrophic 1693 earthquake struck Malta and Sicily. He established a relief fund for widows and orphans of Maltese soldiers. He resolved a 40-year dispute between the […]

Grand Master Gregorio Carafa della Roccella
27 Sep 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Carafa was the first General of the Galleys to receive the title "Excellency". He was the first Italian knight to be elected Grand Master in over a century. He led […]

Grand Master Nicolás Cotoner y de Oleza
30 Aug 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Nicolas Cotoner succeeded his brother, Rafael Cotoner, as Grand Master. He strengthened Malta's defenses by constructing the Cottonera Lines fortifications and Fort Ricasoli. He introduced windmills to Malta, generating revenue […]

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Order of Malta International

The Order of Malta’s global website shares even more of the Order’s remarkable history! Go check it out...

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