Cross of Amalfi Explained
The eight pointed cross, commonly referred to as the Cross of Malta, had its origins with pious and wealthy merchants of Amalfi. Click here for its evolution.

Four Arms of the Cross
The four arms of the Cross of Amalfi represent the four Cardinal Virtues:

  • Temperance
  • Fortitude
  • Prudence
  • Justice

    Eight Points of the Cross
    The eight points of the Cross of Amalfi represent the eight Beatitudes:

  • Spiritual Tranquillity
  • Life Without Malice
  • Contrition
  • Patience in Adversity
  • Love of Justice
  • Mercy
  • Sincerity and Purity of Heart
  • Endurance Under Persecution

    More on Beatitudes - More Still.

    • This is an unofficial website and does not represent the Order
    Sovereign Order of St John of Jerusalem - Knights Hospitaller
    Chartered by King Peter (II) of Yugoslavia
    Grand Master: HRH Prince Karl Vladimir Karageorgevitch
    Grand Prior of Southern Australia: H.E. Bailiff Victor J Techritz AM GCSJ

    Put on the Armour of God
    Put on the armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of your own evil character. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the wickedness within. Stand therefore, and fasten the lambskin apron around your waist, that its purity may keep you unstained in your work. And take up the 24-inch gauge, that it may teach you to divide your time wisely. And take up the common gavel of the spirit, that you may break off the rough and superfluous parts of your character, that you may be fitted stones to that heavenly house not built with hands. Take up the plumb, the square, and level, that you may walk uprightly, square your actions, and travel on the level to that country of which we are eternal citizens. Take up the trowel, that you may spread the cement of brotherly love and bind together all those who work to rebuild the temple which has fallen.

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