Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience

Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience

This 1.5-hour event in Malta combines stunning art, live classical music, and theatrical storytelling inside the historic St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Priced to include access to the cathedral, the tour features a 40-minute concert centered around Caravaggio’s famous painting, The Beheading of St John the Baptist. Held at the Oratory within St. John’s Co-Cathedral, it offers an intimate view of Malta’s most visited site, with the added advantage of visiting before crowds arrive. The performance is led by critically acclaimed Maltese musicians under Jacob Portelli’s musical direction, who bring to life compositions from Handel, Bach, and Maltese sacred music.

With access starting at 18:00 and the concert kicking off at 18:30, this experience suits those interested in combining art, music, and history in a setting that feels both grand and personal. The optional VIP guided tour allows for a more relaxed, crowd-free exploration of the cathedral beforehand, making it perfect for visitors who appreciate quieter, more exclusive moments. The ticket price includes the performance and cathedral access, but does not cover transportation or refreshments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours, with a 40-minute concert starting at 18:30
• Location: St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta
• Highlights: Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist, classical music, theatrical storytelling
• Special feature: Site-specific performance inside the historic cathedral
• VIP option: Guided tour of the cathedral before the concert
• Best for: Art lovers, classical music fans, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a cultural evening in Malta

Exploring the Setting at St. John’s Co-Cathedral

The event takes place inside the beautifully decorated Oratory of Malta’s most visited church, St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This historic venue is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and richly decorated interior. Visitors arriving from St John Street at the main door can admire the cathedral’s exterior before stepping inside. The setting provides a perfect backdrop for the performance, especially as Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist is displayed prominently in the Oratory, spectacularly lit during the event to emphasize its dramatic story.

The cathedral itself remains open to visitors outside of the concert times, allowing for a quiet, crowd-free exploration when booked with the VIP package. The intimate atmosphere enhances the performance, making it more than just a concert but a full sensory experience of Malta’s artistic and religious heritage.

The Performance: Music, Theatre, and Art in Harmony

The core of this experience is a 40-minute concert that weaves classical music, theatrical storytelling, and the visual power of Caravaggio’s masterpiece. Musicians under Jacob Portelli’s direction play Baroque instruments including the harp, violin, cello, and psaltery, performing works by Handel, Bach, and Francesco Azzopardi’s Maltese sacred compositions.

Sung by esteemed Maltese sopranos like Dorothy Bezzina, Hannah Tong, and Dorothy Baldacchino, the vocals are described as amazing, bringing a sense of grandeur and emotion to the performance. Jeremy Grech narrates tales of the Knights of St. John and the history behind the painting, adding a theatrical dimension that complements the music and art.

This carefully curated combination results in a powerful and moving presentation, praised for its high-quality acting, musicianship, and storytelling. The setting’s acoustics and lighting highlight Caravaggio’s dramatic use of light, making the masterpiece come alive in a new way.

The Optional VIP Guided Tour of the Cathedral

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP package offers a guided tour of St. John’s Co-Cathedral just before the concert. This tour, conducted in English by a professional guide, allows visitors to admire the cathedral’s architectural features, interior decorations, and historical artifacts without the daytime crowds. Arriving early—at 18:00—guests can explore the church at their leisure prior to the performance.

This VIP option enhances the experience by providing personalized insights into Malta’s most iconic religious site. After the tour, guests can enjoy front-row seats for the concert, making this a more intimate and engaging way to experience the event.

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Practical Details: Access, Timing, and Requirements

The event begins with access to the cathedral at 18:00, with the concert starting at 18:30. Visitors should arrive at the main door on St John Street. The tour and concert are designed to be relaxed and manageable, with a total duration of 1.5 hours.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the stunning setting. Photography inside the cathedral is not permitted with flash or otherwise, to protect the artwork and preserve the atmosphere.

The tour does not include transportation, food, or drinks, so visitors should plan accordingly. Cancelation is flexible, allowing for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

The Impact of the Artistic and Musical Elements

The combination of visual art, music, and storytelling creates a multi-sensory experience that appeals to various interests. The musicians are praised for their impressive vocals and skillful playing, especially as they perform with Baroque instruments that add authenticity to the period music.

Singers like Dorothy Bezzina, Hannah Tong, and Dorothy Baldacchino are acknowledged for their beautiful vocals, elevating the performance. The theatrical narration adds depth, turning the viewing of Caravaggio’s painting into an engaging storytelling journey.

Audience Feedback and Why It Resonates

The reviews highlight that the high quality of acting, musical performance, and the setting contribute to a deeply moving experience. The ability to see the cathedral’s interior after hours enhances the overall impression, making the event feel exclusive and special.

Many mention that the lighting effects on the painting and the musical selections make the story of Caravaggio’s The Beheading of St John the Baptist come alive in new ways. The combination of art, music, and stories of the Knights of St John creates an experience that is both educational and emotionally impactful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for those interested in art, history, and classical music, especially if they appreciate theatrical storytelling. It suits travelers seeking a cultural evening in Malta that combines visual mastery with auditory delight.

Visitors who enjoy exclusive access and quieter, more personal experiences will find the VIP package particularly appealing. It’s also well-suited for art and history enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of Caravaggio’s work and its context within Maltese culture.

Final Thoughts on Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience

This tour offers a unique blend of art, music, and storytelling inside the stunning setting of St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The high-quality performances and careful curation make it stand out among cultural events in Valletta.

While it is a shorter experience, the intimate environment and the quality of the presentation offer great value. The VIP option enhances the visit further, providing a peaceful exploration and front-row seats.

This experience best suits art lovers, classical music fans, and those seeking a memorable Malta evening that combines history, beauty, and artistic expression in a powerful and engaging way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience?
The event lasts 1.5 hours, with a 40-minute concert starting at 18:30.

Where does the tour take place?
Inside the Oratory of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta.

Is there an option for a guided tour?
Yes, there is an optional VIP guided tour conducted in English before the concert.

What time can I access the cathedral?
Access begins at 18:00, with the concert starting at 18:30.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the 40-minute performance and access to the cathedral without a tour guide; the VIP package includes the guided tour and front-row seats.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the experience does not include food or drinks.

Can I take photos inside the cathedral?
Photography inside the cathedral is not allowed with flash.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but given the setting and nature of the event, it’s best suited for older children and adults.

How do I cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I upgrade to the VIP experience?
Yes, an upgraded VIP experience with an exclusive cathedral tour and front-row seats is available through the provided link.

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