St. John in Lateran Cathedral and Holy Stairs Tour for Catholics
Join an intense spiritual pilgrimage through three of Rome's most significant places of worship, accompanied by an experienced Catholic guide who will take you on a journey through faith, art and history. The guide will help you gain an in-depth understanding of the history of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Lateran Baptistery and the Holy Stairs, revealing details and symbolism of these places that have unique importance in Christian tradition.
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St. John in Lateran Cathedral and Holy Stairs Tour for Catholics
What's included in St. John in Lateran Cathedral and Holy Stairs Tour for Catholics
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The tour begins with the Basilica of St. John Lateran, also known as the "Mother of all Churches". This is the oldest of the four papal basilicas in Rome as well as the city's cathedral. Guided by our knowledgeable Catholic guide, we will admire the imposing facade, with statues of saints and popes inviting entry. Entering the nave, we will be guided by the guide's narration to discover every artistic and spiritual detail , such as the precious mosaics and sculptures. The guide will also explain the symbolic significance of the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and Arnolfo di Cambio's magnificent medieval tabernacle.
Battistero Lateranense
We will continue to the Lateran Baptistery, the site of the ancient baptismal font of the early Roman Christians. The guide will explain the significance of the octagonal architecture, a symbol of resurrection and rebirth, and the historical importance of this site, the oldest Christian baptistery in the city. Inside we will admire the porphyry columns and early Christian mosaics, discovering the deep meaning of this place of purification and rebirth in faith.
Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The last stop on the tour is the Holy Staircase, a place of deep devotion that, according to tradition, houses the 28 steps that Jesus allegedly walked to Pontius Pilate on the day of his condemnation. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to climb these steps on their knees as an act of penance and prayer. During the visit, we will also admire the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum, an ancient private chapel of the popes, which holds precious relics. The Holy Staircase offers a moment of recollection and faith, a symbolic path that recalls the passion and sacrifice of Christ.
Inclusions
- Experienced Catholic guide
- Private Tour
- Gratuities
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- You will meet your guide at the statue of St. Francis D'Assisi in St. John's Square. He will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it.
