Brief Biography
Pietro Giochi del Monte continued construction of Valletta after La Vallette's death.
Sources: Order of Malta: The Grand Masters; Wikipedia: Grand Masters of the Knights Hospitaller.
Life and service to the Order
He also strengthened the Order's fleet, which took part in the Christian coalition at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
On Malta the Order developed hospitals, fortifications and a maritime presence while governing the islands. Its religious and charitable purposes continued alongside these public responsibilities.
7 October 1571: Battle of Lepanto, naval defeat of Turks.
Pietro del Monte (1568-72), who succeeded La Valette, was as keen on the building of the city as his predecessor. Work went on feverishly and within five years the two-mile fortifications round Valletta were completed. In ú 1571 the Grand Master transferred the Convent to the new city and when he died he was laid to rest in the Victory church by the side of La Valette and now lies in St John's Co-Cathedral.
Historical context: Order of Malta, The Grand Masters; History of the Order.
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