A Millenium of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta: Announcing The Investiture’s Grand Exclusive 10-Part Series about the SMOM

Embark on an epic journey through a millennium of chivalry, valor, and humanitarian legacy through our exclusive 10-part series on the SMOM—join our inner circle today for an unparalleled insights!

In the grand tapestry of history, few institutions embody the enduring spirit of chivalry, charitable mission, and sovereignty over centuries as profoundly as the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta.

The Government of the Sovereign Order of Malta

Founded nearly a millennium ago amid the fervent pilgrimages to the Holy Land, the Sovereign Order of Malta has traversed epochs of crusades, conquests, exiles, and resurgences, evolving from a modest hospice into a global symbol of diplomatic finesse and charitable endeavour.

The Grand Crosss of Honour and Devotion, SMOM, early 20th Century

Today, as we stand on the threshold of an unprecedented exploration, The Investiture is proud to announce an exclusive 10-part series dedicated to unraveling the extraordinary journey of the Sovereign Order of Malta—from its humble origins in 11th-century Jerusalem to its pivotal role in contemporary international affairs as of 2025.

The Magistral Palace, the government seat of the Sovereign Order of Malta, since 1834

This project is conceived exclusively for our Founding Members and Paid Subscribers. It is dedicated to all of you who are upholding chivalric values and eager to learn more about the Orders of Knighthood and Merit today.

If you are presently reading The Investiture under a free subscription and wish to accompany us on every step of this millennial journey, upgrade in a single click on the button:

This meticulously crafted series delves into archival depths, lesser-known anecdotes, and insightful analyses. Each instalment will illuminate a distinct chapter, blending narrative elegance with factual precision to captivate those passionate about chivalric orders, their heritage, and their modern charitable initiatives.

His Most Eminent Highness Grand Master Fra’ John Dunlap holds he Annual Audience of the beginning of the year with the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Sovereign Order of Malta by

The series has been inspired by our wish to enrich your understanding of an Order that remains sovereign through centuries, charitable amidst conflict, and eternally committed to the defence of faith and service to the afflicted.

The View of the Basilica of St. Peter, from the “Holy Keyhole” of the Magistral Villa, on the Aventine Hill

To ensure comprehensive coverage without haste, the series is structured chronologically across ten instalments, balancing medieval valour with modern missions:

1. From Pilgrim Hospice to Papal Benediction: The Establishment of the Order in Jerusalem (1048–1113)

   Inception by Amalfitan merchants, the role of Blessed Gerard, early humanitarian endeavours, and the 1113 papal bull conferring independence

2. Swords and Crosses: The Process of Militarisation and Engagement in the Crusades (1113–1187)

   Transformation into a chivalric order under Raymond du Puy, battles such as Hattin, and the symbolism of the eight-pointed cross.

3. The Fall of Jerusalem and Subsequent Struggles: The Order's Commitment to the Defence of the Holy Land (1187–1291)

   Saladin's victories, the siege of Acre in 1291, and the loss of the Holy Land.

4. Exile in Cyprus: Preservation and Reconstruction (1291–1309)

   Relocation to Cyprus, reorganisation following losses, and preparations for renewed conflicts.

5. The Isle of Knights: Conquest and Defence of Rhodes (1309–1522)

   Seizure of Rhodes in 1309, confrontations with the Ottomans, and the development of naval prowess.

6. The Great Siege and Zenith of Prosperity: The Order's Presence on Malta (1530–1565)

   Grant of Malta by Charles V, the Great Siege of 1565 under Jean de Valette, and triumph over the Ottomans.

7. The Maltese Apogee and Decline: From the 17th to the 18th Century (1565–1798)

   Economic flourishing, naval engagements, internal reforms, and capitulation to Napoleon in 1798.

8. Exile and Renaissance: The 19th Century and Anchorage in Rome (1798–1918)

   Loss of Malta, exile in Russia and Europe, restoration in Rome in 1834, and roles in various conflicts.

9. Humanitarian Mission in the Contemporary World: The 20th Century and Global Conflicts (1918–2000)

   Contributions during the First and Second World Wars, humanitarian operations, and diplomatic status.

10. The Sovereign Order in the Present Era: From 2000 to 2025—Diplomacy, Philanthropic Endeavours, and Future Prospects

    Modern humanitarian initiatives, reform of the Order, diplomatic missions in over 120 nations, challenges, and a vision for the future up to 2025.

The Church of St. Mary of the Priory, also known as St. Mary on the Aventine, the monastery church of the Priory of the Knights of Malta in Rome

As we embark on this fascinating journey together, we invite all enthusiasts of chivalric heritage to join our inner circle. Upgrade today to gain immediate access to this series and our trove of premium offerings. Elevate your reading experience while endorsing The Investiture’s mission and click the button:

Your support as a Founding Member or Paid Subscriber is not merely an upgrade— it is the pillar of the growth and long-term success of The Investiture. By supporting us, you enable the creation of meticulously researched, exclusive content, sustaining independent journalism about Chivalric Orders that delves into the noble arts of history and honour, ensuring we can continue to deliver unparalleled insights going forward!

Icon of Our Lady of Philermos, revered as the protectress of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta

We look forward to guiding you through the annals of an Order that has withstood the tempests of time, inspiring generations with its unwavering motto: Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum—Defence of the Faith and Service to the Poor.