The Basilica of St. John Lateran, also known as the Archbasilica of the Savior and of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, is a historical and spiritual monument of great importance in Rome and in the Catholic world. Recognized as the cathedral of the diocese of Rome and the mother church of all churches both in the city and in the world, St. John Lateran stands as a symbol of the Christian faith and the history of the Catholic Church. Founded in the 4th century by Constantine the Great, this basilica is the oldest in the world and has witnessed crucial moments in Christian history, including the proclamation of the first Jubilee by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300. Its spiritual importance is reflected in its designation as the holiest place in the world, where the faithful and pilgrims flock to seek inspiration and connection with their faith.
St. John Lateran is a monumental complex that includes not only the basilica, but also the Lateran Palace and the Shrine of the Holy Stairs. This complex, owned by the Holy See and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a spiritual reference point for millions of Catholics around the world. Its grandiose architecture and rich artistic details, including frescoes by Giotto and a 14th century ciborium, attract visitors and devotees alike. As the episcopal see of the Pope, St. John Lateran plays a central role in the religious life of the Catholic Church and remains a place of encounter and veneration for all those seeking to strengthen their faith and explore the history of Christianity.
- Address
P.za di S. Giovanni in Laterano 4, Rome, Italy
- Web
https://www.vatican.va - Visiting Hours
Everyday from 7:00 to 18:30 - What to see
Basilica, cloister, baptistery, archaeological excavations
