Basilica of Saint John Lateran Rome
Basilica of Saint John Lateran is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Rome. It is the official ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, who is the Pope. Basilica of Saint John Lateran is often referred to as “The Popes Church”. It is the oldest and is rated first among the four Papal Basilicas of Rome. Constantine was first to build Basilica of Saint John Lateran Rome. Burned down and ravaged by earthquakes it was rebuilt several times over the years. It was Rome’s most important church through the middle ages. They say all popes were inaugurated here until 1870.
To get to this Basilica, take the Metro A and get off San Giovanni stop, or take the Hop on Hop off bus Roma Cristiana which stops here as well. The church is right across the street to Santuario della Scala Santa. Scala Santa contains The Holy Stairs. The very ones Christ walked up before he was sentenced to die. Before making your way inside make sure to look at the beautiful façade. It has an inscription on it and says Christo Salvatori, meaning the church’s dedication to “Christ the Savior”. I went to visit Basilica of Saint John Lateran after lunch, such an ideal time of day. When I walked inside the beams of sunlight that shone through the windows made it even more beautiful. Tremendous church that has stunning architecture, arches, chapels, and naves is a must see for all. Basilica of Saint John Lateran oozes wealth, history and majesty. The ceiling itself is an extraordinary work of art. Frescoes and paintings adorned the walls. Mosaic flooring has decorative inlaid in marble that was done beautifully. The lines of intricately beautiful twelve Apostles statues that lead to the main alter are very impressive. Beautiful golden columns from a Roman Temple are located to the left of the white seat of the Papal Throne. The chair was simple yet majestic. The church also houses the original doors to the Forum over two thousand years old.
The Gothic Baldacchino that centers around the Papal altar is extremely impressive. The two silver gilded busts that you see inside contain the heads of the Apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Before leaving make sure to can visit the colorful garden that was completed by Pope Leo XIII. His tomb is contained in the church to the left of the main alter.
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Phone number: +39 06 6988 6433 Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, Rome, Italy Open daily 7:00 a.m. to 7: p.m. Basilica of Saint John Lateran is easily accessible by metro A (stop San Giovanni). Free entry and photos are allowed. Definitely a must visit.
