How to Enjoy St. John's Cathedral in Rome
Described as “The Mother of All Churches” by the Catholic Church, the San Giovanni in Laterano, also known as the Basilicae of St. John Lateran, dates to the early foruth century. Prior to 1309, the adjoining Lateran Palace served as the official residence of the Pope. Today, it is the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, of which the Pope is bishop. The following information will offer some tips on how to enjoy your visit to St. John’s Cathedral in Rome.
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Instructions
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Climb the Scala Sancta. The Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs, are the stairs that Jesus Christ climbed in Jerusalem during his trial. The 28 marble stairs, now protected by wood, can only be ascended on the knees, a practice popular to many pilgrims. For others, the steps are flanked by four other staircases, which are open to the public. It is said that the Holy Stairs were moved from Jerusalem in the year 326 A.D., by St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great. Pope Sixtus V relocated the steps to their present location in front of the Sancta Sactorum in 1589.
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Visit the Baptistery. The Lateran Baptistery is located just outside the northeast façade of the Cathedral. The octagonal structure is topped by a large dome and is connected to the Cathedral by a covered walkway. Founded the Emperor Constantine in the early fourth century, the Baptistery owes its shape to 8 columns that are topped by marble Corinthian capitals. Inside the Baptistery, visitors will find some beautiful mosaics dating to the fifth century, as well as a large octagonal basin that was used for full immersions during baptism.
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Explore the Papal Altar. The Gothic style baldacchino, or canopy, which rises above the Papal Altar is decorated with fourteenth-century frescoes. It also contains relics that are said to include the heads of St. Peter and St. Paul. The High Altar directly below is only accessible by the Pope.
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Tour the cloisters. The only evidence of a thirteenth-century Benedictine monastery can be found in the cloisters. Surrounded by twisted double columns of inlaid marble, the design and construction of the cloister is attributed to the Vassalletto family. It is believed that Roman soldiers cast lots for Christ's robes in these cloisters.
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Tips & Warnings
The cathedral is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to approximately 6:00 p.m.
Although admission to the cathedral is free, there is a charge to visit the cloisters.
This is an active cathedral. Access can be limited or denied during certain events or services.
Pilgrims climbing the Holy Stairs on their knees create long lines on Fridays and during Lent.
