The Maltese cross is a cross symbol, consisting of four "V" or arrowhead shaped concave quadrilaterals converging at a central vertex at right angles, two tips pointing outward symmetrically. It is a heraldic cross variant which developed from earlier forms of eight-pointed crosses in the 16th century. Although the Maltese cross is most famously associated with the Knights of Malta, as well as Malta itself as a country, it is thought the symbol evolved from a closely resembling cross found on coins minted in Amalfi (an Italian republic) during the 11th century. What's the meaning of the Maltese cross?
Knights of Malta O.S.J.
The Order of Malta The Sovereign Order of Malta is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilisation. Knights of Malta National Institutions Constitutional Charter and Code Pilgrimages Our Lady of Philermos Nuns of the Order Saints and Blessed Fra' John T. Dunlap May 26, 2023 Table of Contents The Maltese cross is a popular symbol, commonly found on medals of honor, coats of arms, architecture, jewelry, airlines, and sports team. But what does it mean and why is it so popular? Here's a look into this global symbol. History of the Maltese Cross A Maltese Cross by Tribalium88 Contents show The Maltese Cross's Origin: The Order of Saint John Also Known As The Knights of Malta As one of the most recognizable types of crosses, especially in Europe, the Maltese cross has its roots going back to Jerusalem of the 1100s. More recently, a path was created for Knights and Dames of the lowest class (of whom proof of aristocratic lineage is not required) to be specially elevated to the highest class, making them eligible for office in the order.
The Maltese Cross Its origin and importance to Malta
Although they never planned to use the islands as a permanent base, The Knights - a group rather than a state or a nation - ruled Malta for the next 268 years. This period is widely considered to have transformed Malta into a martime and cultural centre of 18th century Europe. The majority of the country's most impressive and visited buildings. Its eight points denote the eight obligations of the knights, namely "to live in truth, have faith, repent one's sins, give proof of humility, love justice, be merciful, be sincere and whole-hearted, and to endure persecution". The inception of the Maltese Cross can be traced back to the time of the Crusades. It was during these holy wars of the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries that an order of monastic warriors known as the Knights Hospitaller emerged. These knights were dedicated to providing care for the poor, sick, and injured pilgrims journeying to the Holy Land. Maltese Cross (Knights of St. John - members of the Crusader orders): A form of Greek cross in which the arms have the shape of arrows meeting in the centre. Linked guides and points map
Coat of Arms, Knights of Malta, Grand Master's Palace, Val… Flickr
8 min of reading - 2180 words Today's subject is one of the most popular symbols of the orders of knighthood. When the knights took possession of Malta, they raised the red standard on which is their emblem, the famous Maltese cross. The four arms of the Maltese cross represent the four Cardinal Values, i.e. prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. As for the total of eight points on these four V-shaped arms, it is believed that they symbolize the eight obligations or aspirations of the knights.
The Knights of Malta (also referred to as the Order of Saint John) ruled the Maltese islands for centuries and left a strong mark. A lot of the structures they built centuries ago are still very popular attractions on tours, excursions and activities in Malta. The impact of the Knights on Malta and its history is still highly visible today. The flag and coat of arms of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, or the Jerusalem flag, [2] display a white cross on a red field (blazon gules a cross argent ), ultimately derived from the design worn by the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades . The flag represents the Sovereign Military Order of Malta as a sovereign institution.
Armorials of Neil C. Ward, Knight of Malta, designed & painted by David WatertonAnderson
The Maltese Cross is a symbol that has been associated with religious faith and devotion for centuries. Its history dates back to the Crusades, when it was worn by the Knights of Malta as a sign of protection against evil. The cross itself has come to represent strength, courage and sacrifice in many cultures around the world. The red rectangular flag with the white latin cross is the of the Sovereign Order of Malta. Called the flag of St. John, it has been used since ancient times. Giacomo Bosio's "History of the Order " (1594), records that in 1130 Pope Innocent II had decreed that "…Religion in war should bear a standard with a white cross on a red field".
