Two of the Finest Churches in Rome Italy
The Basilicas of San Giovanni in Laterano and Santa Maria Maggiore
It was founded by Constantine early in the 4th century and was the first Christian basilica in Rome. The early church represented a victory of Christianity over paganism.
The interior of the church as we see it today was commissioned by Pope Innocent X in 1646 and although some of the architecture is quite severe there is much to admire.
It’s a large building and takes some time to see it all. If your time is short, make sure you buy a guide book and visit the:
- Nave
- Papal Alter
- Baptistery
- Cloisters
Scala Santa
Opposite the Basilica is one of the holiest sites in Rome, the Scala Santa which is found within the Sancta Sanctorum, once the pope’s private chapel.
The staircase within is reputed to be from Pontius Pilate’s house in Jerusalem, ascended by Christ before his Crucifixion. Some of the 28 marble steps, now protected by a wooden covering, have dark stains believed by some to be the blood of Christ.
The devout will slowly climb the stairs on their knees making a prayer on each step. It is a deeply moving experience even for many non- believers. The process can take between 30 minutes and an hour to complete. There are alternative staircases for those who only want to see the beautiful mosaics in the chapel.
Santa Maria Maggiore
Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four Roman basilicas that belong to the Vatican, its large interior dominated by a long nave lined with Roman columns. Above the columns are mosaics, which represent stories from the Old Testament. The Renaissance ceiling is reputed to be decorated with the first gold to be brought from the New World.
If you have just visited San Giovanni in Laterano and the Holy Staircase, a look round Santa Maria Maggiore is an ideal way to finish a day’s sightseeing.
How to get to San Giovanni in Laterano
The Basilica is on the Piazza di Porta San Giovanni and is within walking distance of the Colosseum.
The nearest Metro stop is San Giovanni.
A number of buses also stop nearby.
It’s generally very busy, particularly at the Holy Staircase, try to come before 11am.
There are a number of hotels near San Giovanni in Laterano but the new four star CineMusic Hotel is only one hundred metres from the Metro and very close to the Basilica.
How to get to Santa Maria Maggiore
Within walking distance from San Giovanni.
Nearest Metro stations are Cavour, Termini or Vittorio Emanuele.
There are plenty of hotels in the vicinity but the four star Hotel Mecenate Palace is directly in front of the Basilica.
