Rome: St John Lateran & Holy Steps Catholic Tour｜Italy

Visit two of Rome’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites on a focused one-hour tour: the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Steps and the Archbasilica of St John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome and Mother and Head of all churches in the city and world.

Begin at the Scala Sancta. According to ancient tradition, these are the steps from Pontius Pilate’s praetorium in Jerusalem, climbed by Jesus before His Passion and brought to Rome by St Helena in the fourth century. Pilgrims may ascend the Holy Steps on their knees in prayer and, under the Church’s usual conditions, seek the associated plenary indulgence. Because this devotion takes about 45 minutes, it is not part of the guided hour; you may undertake it independently after the tour.

Ascend by the parallel staircase to see the Sancta Sanctorum, the former private chapel of the popes, and glimpse the revered image of Christ said to have been begun by St Luke and completed by angels.

Continue across the road to St John Lateran, Rome’s cathedral and the highest-ranking church in the Catholic world. Discover its monumental nave, papal altar, sacred art and long history from the legalisation of Christianity to the present day. Venerate the reliquaries containing the heads of Sts Peter and Paul and see the part of the table of the Last Supper preserved within the basilica.

The basilica also has one of Rome’s four Holy Doors, normally closed outside Jubilee years. The next Jubilee of the Redemption is anticipated in 2033.

Your expert Catholic guide explains the relics, traditions, indulgence and spiritual significance of these living places of worship. Shoulders and knees must be covered. The tour ends at St John Lateran, close to Metro Line A and local transport.