Carnival in Malta was already being celebrated in the early 1400s, long before the Knights of St John set foot on the islands. Yet when the Order began ruling Malta in the 16th century, the festivities did not go unnoticed. In fact, some of the very Grand Masters buried within St John’s Co-Cathedral played a direct role in shaping, and restricting, Carnival celebrations.

Grand Master Piero del Ponte openly condemned knights who joined masked revelries, believing such behaviour compromised the dignity of the Order. Later, Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris imposed stricter regulations: women were banned from wearing masks, and devil costumes were outlawed, reflecting concerns about morality and public order.

The most dramatic interruption came in 1663, when Grand Master Raphael Cotoner temporarily suspended Carnival altogether. At the time, Malta faced fears of war, and the suspension also served as an act of atonement after consecrated hosts were stolen from a church.

Despite these restrictions and even outright bans, Carnival endured. It adapted, evolved, and survived political tension and religious concerns. Centuries later, it remains a vibrant and cherished tradition - proof that while rulers may shape celebrations, the spirit of Carnival in Malta has always found a way to live on.

Are you a fan of Carnival celebrations?