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 Antoine De Paule
19 Apr 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

De Paule built the San Anton Palace as a Knight of the Order, which now serves as the president of Malta’s residence. After being elected, he immediately faced opposition from […]

Grand Master Luis Mendes De Vasconcellos
29 Mar 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Grand Master de Vasconcellos was the oldest Grand Master ever to be elected. He distinguished himself for the courage and intelligence he displayed during the various embassies he was entrusted […]

Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt
08 Mar 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Grand Master de Wignacourt brought a renaissance in naval & military power to the Order during 1601-1622. He successfully defended Malta against a Turkish raid, demonstrating the formidable force of the Order. Check out our latest blog to learn more…

Grand Master Martín Garzés
27 Feb 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Martín Garzés was the first Grand Master to fortify Gozo, strengthening the defenses of the Maltese Islands. To combat the exploitative practice of usury, he founded the first “Monte di […]

Grand Master Hughes Loubenx De Verdale
03 Feb 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

Grand Master Verdale was elected for his wise and moderate nature in an attempt to keep peace among the Langues of the Order. He witnessed a plague outbreak in 1592 […]

Grand Master Jean l’Evêque de la Cassière
24 Jan 2023| Grand Masters of the Order

La Cassière faced a rebellion by a group of knights within the Order and was imprisoned in Fort St Angelo. He witnessed the establishment of the Inquisition in Malta in […]

Grand Master Pietro Ciocchi del Monte San Savino
09 Sep 2022| Grand Masters of the Order

The 50th Grand Master of the Order of Malta was a distinguished veteran of the Siege of Rhodes in 1522 AND the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. Discover the heroic life of Pietro del Monte…

Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette
31 Aug 2022| Grand Masters of the Order

Jean Parisot de Valette was born to French nobility A great leader, he quickly climbed the Order’s ranks He famously saved Malta from Turkish invasion Malta’s capital city, Valletta, is […]

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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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