⚡Sunday Art Snapshot: Carravaggio in Malta⚡

How a rebellious artist left his mark on Malta 🎨

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Did you know that the famous Italian artist Caravaggio spent time in Malta?

In 1607, he fled Rome after committing murder and sought refuge with the Knights of Malta. During his stay, Caravaggio painted some of his most dramatic works, including The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, which still hangs in St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. It’s the largest painting Caravaggio ever created and the only one he signed.

The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist is a dramatic masterpiece depicting the biblical execution with haunting realism, considered one of his greatest works and the only painting he signed.

Caravaggio's Saint Jerome Writing is also located in St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, and depicts the saint deep in thought, writing with dramatic chiaroscuro, showcasing Caravaggio’s mastery of light and shadow during his time in Malta.

Saint Jerome Writing

Despite his artistic genius, Caravaggio’s temper got him into trouble yet again – he was imprisoned in Malta for violent behavior but escaped, leaving behind a legacy of masterpieces.

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This flashfact is a reference to my JourneyJots post on Malta.

Ancient Wonders of Malta’s Megalithic Temples

And one last thing - this publication will stay free forever, but if you feel I deserve a cup of matcha 🍵 here and there, then please buy me some - the next drink’s on me! ☕