The Knights of Malta, also known as the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Malta, were a Roman Catholic religious order with a military and chivalrous character.

Hierarchy of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John

• Grand Master: The supreme head of the Order, elected by the Council.

• Grand Commander: The second-highest-ranking officer, with duties including overseeing the Order’s finances and administration. 

• Marshal of the Hospital: Held the position of quartermaster-general, responsible for military supplies and logistics. 
• Langues: The Order was divided into eight Langues, representing different geographical regions of Europe: Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy, Aragon, England, Germany, and Castile. Each Langue had its own Auberge (lodge or building) and was headed by a Bali. 
• Knights: These were the core fighting force and administrators of the Order. 
• Men-at-Arms: Provided support to the knights in military and other duties. 
• Chaplains: Provided spiritual guidance and performed religious duties. 

This structure ensured the Order’s functionality both as a military force and a religious institution

Origins and Early History:

• The order’s roots trace back to 1048 when merchants from the Duchy of Amalfi founded a hospital in Jerusalem to care for pilgrims.
• They were formally recognized by Pope Paschal II in 1113 as the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.
• Initially focused on healthcare, the order gradually developed a military aspect, becoming a significant force in the Crusades. 
• They evolved into a powerful military force, eventually becoming known for their defence of Christianity and Europe.

Malta and Beyond:

• After being expelled from Rhodes by the Turks, the Knights were granted the island of Malta by Emperor Charles V in 1530. 
• They established a stronghold there, using it as a base to defend against Ottoman incursions and piracy.
• The Knights ruled Malta for approximately 250 years, transforming the islands and leaving a lasting legacy on Maltese culture and architecture. 
• They were eventually forced out of Malta by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. 

Legacy:

• The Knights of Malta are one of the oldest surviving orders of chivalry.
• They are still active today with the Order’s seat now in Rome, focusing on humanitarian work, social assistance, and diplomatic efforts.
• Their legacy in Malta includes not only their military achievements but also a vast network of hospitals, charitable institutions, impressive fortifications, palaces, towers, other military constructions and civil projects that remain in full or in part to this day.

Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum

Defence of the Faith and assistance to the poor