Who says that beautiful, old-world cathedrals can only be found on the main continent of Europe? The St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a priceless gem of Baroque art situated in Malta, an unexpected location that continues to yield surprises. You may not be blown away by the exterior of the cathedral: its plain brick façade is reflective of the Knights who built it, and their military pragmatism. But no one can accuse them of austerity, for this building subtly conceals an interior that will blow you away with its dazzling richness. When you step inside, you might feel somewhat overwhelmed by the high arched roofs with intricate paintings, the gilded vaults and polychrome marble floors. Everything is covered with gold, silver and colour, a lavish display that’s fitting of the Knights’ sophistication and wealth. And keep an eye out for a huge painting of John the Baptist done by Caravaggio, a priceless treasure comparable that adds on to the richness of the place. The cathedral looks mesmerizing in photographs, but you will only be able to grasp the extent of its magnificence by making a visit there yourself.