Situated on the Celio Hill and surrounded by a vast complex of buildings.

The Basilica with its 17 centuries of history is defined as the Mother of all Churches and houses the Chair of St Peter.

Is the throne on which the Pope sits as bishop of Rome.

Commissioned by Emperor Constantine after his conversion and victory over Maxentius, it was consecrated in 324 AD.

In pagan times it was a building for public meetings and for the administration of justice, later becoming the first example of early Christian architecture.

An integral part of the Lateran Complex is also the evocative cloister of the Basilica.

Built between the XII and XIII centuries by the Roman marble workers of the Vassalletto Family.

It is one of the most beautiful medieval cloisters in Rome, an oasis of silence and harmony that surprises with the elegance of its twisted and inlaid columns.

They all different from each other, which frame a rectangular courtyard.

Here you can admire fragments of early Christian and medieval art, ancient sarcophagi, epigraphs and architectural remains from the original basilica, in a timeless and intimate atmosphere that completes the experience of the visit.

Touring St John Lateran Basilica

Although over the years the Church suffered the consequences of an earthquake and fires and underwent various reconstruction interventions, today it retains its original appearance.

The central bronze portals are the originals used in the Roman Curia of the Imperial Forums.

The basilica has a grandiose and richly decorated interior, from the roofs to the mosaic-decorated floor, on which imposing columns and colossal statues are installed.

The guided tour of St John Lateran Basilica and its Cloister will offer the opportunity to discover a true treasure.

Chest of art and history which, nearby, also houses the famous Scala Santa, a destination of pilgrimage for Catholics.

It is considered the stairs climbed by Jesus to reach the interrogation room of Pontius Pilate before the crucifixion.

Booking & Travel

St John Lateran Basilica wheelchair accessible tours.

Unmissable visit at it with our Rome Accessible Tours.

Specifically tailored to wheelchair users, reduced mobility persons with an adapted transport.