The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano can be reached by a short, pleasant walk from Hotel Caracciolo. This allows all our guests to easily visit one of the most important cathedrals in the world.

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is the oldest church in the world and is the cathedral of the diocese of Rome, the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope, founded during the pontificate of Melchiades [311-314].

To get an idea of its importance, it is sufficient to realise that it is considered an “arch-basilica”, i.e. a superior Basilica, being older and of higher rank than the three other Basilicas in Rome, St Peters, St Pauls and St. Mary Major. The Basilica is one of the major reliquaries of the Catholic world and it was from here that the first Jubilee was proclaimed.

Its history is closely bound to that of the city of Rome, which saw it being built, fall various times under the blows of history, and finally rise one more in its present form.

The origins of the Basilica date back to 312, when Constantine defeated Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. At the time, the building comprised five naves in order to demonstrate its size, and like all early Christian basilicas, it was built facing east, to symbolise the dawn and rebirth in Christ.

Access to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is through the entrance beneath the “Loggia delle Benedizioni” (Blessings Lodge). The basilica’s interior is composed of five naves, the central one of which has a coffered ceiling, the two adjacent ones feature a series of small domes and the outer ones have flat ceilings. The reconstruction work, which took place during the mid-17th century, was done by Borromini, who created a true masterpiece, thanks to his arrangement of the central body in arches, pillars and minor naves, allowing the external light to enlighten the interior and reveal all its beauty. Apart from the mosaics in the apse and on the tabernacle, one of the few elements that have survived until today is the mediaeval floor.

Nearby, at the site of the “Palazzo del Laterano”, the ancient palace of the popes, is preserved the Scala Santa (Holy Stairs), which Jesus is reputed to have walked up to be judged by Pontius Pilate. The staircase was brought to Rome by St. Helena, the mother of Constantine. At the top of the staircase is the Sancta Sanctorum Chapel, which houses some of the most important Christian relics.

For information and times: http://www.vicariatusurbis.org