🇮🇹 Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano)
Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano · 로마
Location
Overview
The Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran is the actual cathedral of Rome and the seat of the pope as Bishop of Rome. Founded in 324, it is the oldest public church in the Western world and the only church in the world with the title 'archbasilica' — the first-ranking of Rome's four papal major basilicas, outranking even St Peter's as the 'mother church.' It is prized for its opulent Baroque interior, the towering statues of the twelve apostles, and the ancient Egyptian obelisk on its square, yet it draws fewer crowds than the Vatican.
Twelve monumental Baroque statues of the apostles (about 4 m tall) lining the nave, above dazzling Cosmatesque inlaid marble floors
The papal altar with its Gothic baldachin, and the confessio below with a statue of St John the Baptist and the tomb of Pope Martin V
The 13th-century cloister (c. 1232) with twisted, mosaic-adorned columns — one of the most beautiful in Rome
The Lateran Obelisk on the square: the tallest and oldest ancient Egyptian obelisk in the world (about 31 m), brought from Thebes/Karnak
The Holy Door (Porta Santa), opened in Jubilee years, and the separate Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) building across the street
Good to know
RulesAs an active church, a strict dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts and short shorts, and carry a large scarf as a cover-up just in case.
MannersThis is a place of worship with Mass and prayer. Remove hats indoors, keep your voice down, and avoid flash or tripod photography during services.
RulesEntry to the basilica itself is free, but the cloister, baptistery and treasury/museum require a combined ticket (around €10 — confirm the latest). The Scala Sancta is a separate building across the road with its own hours and fees.
SafetyMetro Lines A and C meet at San Giovanni station, and pickpockets work the crowded platforms and interchange corridors. Wear your backpack on your front and keep your wallet and phone out of back pockets.
SeasonThe basilica, cloister, baptistery and museum each keep different hours, and areas may close for Mass or liturgical events, so check current opening times before you go.
Practical info
Right at San Giovanni metro (Lines A & C). Basilica free (roughly 07:00–18:30, confirm latest); cloister, baptistery and museum need a paid combined ticket. Cover shoulders and knees; the Scala Sancta is a separate visit across the street.
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