The Order of Malta was recognized as a religious Order in 1113 by Pope Paschal II and thus is linked to the Holy See, all while being independent as a sovereign state and subject to international law.
Accordingly, the religious character of the Order coexists with its full sovereignty. The Grand Master is head of a sovereign State and head of a religious Order. In this second capacity the Holy Roman Church gives him the rank of Cardinal.
The eight-pointed Cross which symbolizes the Order represents the eight Beatitudes and is thus a visual memento of its spirituality.
The Order of Malta is a lay religious Order according to Canon Law, where some of its members are religious, having professed the three vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, while others have taken a special vow of obedience. The great majority of the Knights and Dames are lay members.
According to the Constitution, members of the Order of Malta are required to maintain exemplary Christian behavior.
