The Maltese Cross, a symbol of courage, honour, and service, is deeply entwined with the history of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta. This eight-pointed cross has evolved over centuries to become an enduring emblem of the Order and a universal symbol of humanitarian commitment.
This cross has four arms and eight points, not without reason.
The four arms represent the four cardinal virtues:
- Prudence
- Justice
- Fortitude
- Temperance
The eight points are signs of the eight beatitudes from the Christian Gospel which bestow the eight obligations of the Knight:
- Spiritual joy
- To live without malice
- To weep over sins
- To humble thyself
- To love justice
- To be merciful
- To be sincere and pure of heart
- To suffer persecution without complaint or ill will
Origins of the Cross
The roots of the Maltese Cross can be traced back to the Crusader period in the 11th and 12th centuries. The Knights Hospitaller, who were dedicated to caring for the sick and injured pilgrims in the Holy Land, adopted a simple white cross as their symbol. This marked their commitment to Christianity and their role as protectors of the weak.
During the 13th century, after the Knights settled in the island of Rhodes, their cross took on a more defined shape with four arms that spread outward into a “V” shape. This design later evolved into the iconic eight-pointed cross we know today.
The Cross in Malta
The cross became known as the “Maltese Cross” when the Knights relocated to Malta in 1530, granted to them by Emperor Charles V. Under the Knights’ leadership, Malta became a bastion of defence and a centre of medical care in the Mediterranean. The eight-pointed cross was emblazoned on the Knights’ armour, ships, and flags, cementing its association with the island.
The most famous display of the Maltese Cross was during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, when the Knights successfully defended the island against the Ottoman Empire. This victory further solidified the cross as a symbol of bravery and resilience.
Modern Legacy
Today, the Maltese Cross continues to represent the values of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, as well as other Orders inspired by its mission. It is a universal emblem for organisations dedicated to humanitarian aid, including ambulance and rescue services worldwide.
The Maltese Cross stands as a timeless reminder of the enduring values of service, compassion, and courage that define the spirit of those who wear it and the legacy of the Order it represents.