Mimic Orders

The Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta wishes to point out the proliferation all over the world of bodies and associations which, using symbols and names not unlike those of the Order of Malta, are trying in every measure to represent themselves as legitimate and recognised orders of Saint John.These organisations have no connection whatsoever with the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta whose institutional seat is located in Rome, at Via Condotti 68, and which maintains bilateral diplomatic relations with over 100 States and the European Union, and has permanent observer status at the United Nations. The Sovereign Order of Malta does not recognise any historical or legal legitimacy in organisations and associations that take advantage of the names and emblems of the Order of Malta by using them for financial ends.

Caution is strongly recommended when considering proposals or appeals from organisations claiming to be the Order of Malta or an order of Saint John. Please have their authenticity confirmed by one of the Grand Priories, National Associations or Embassies of the Sovereign Order of Malta accredited in their respective countries. For a complete list of the Order’s entities and their contact details please visit the ‘Contacts’ section of this web site.

For further information:
Note of clarification from the Vatican Secretariat of State